CN101068709B - Rear suspension system for a bicycle - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a rear suspension system for a bicycle to absorb forces impacting on the bicycle by allowing a rear wheel of the bicycle to be displaced relative to the bicycle frame. Upon displacement of the rear wheel, the rear suspension system allows the rear wheel to move from a general first position to a second position, and then acts to return the rear wheel to the general first position. Embodiments of the rear suspension system can be adjusted to affect the travel path of the rear wheel as well as the leverage ratio curve to suit the rider's preference. The present invention includes a rear frame couple with a front frame through first and second pivot translating assemblies, the orientations and/or shapes of which affect the rear wheel path as well as the leverage ratios.

Description

The rear suspension system that is used for bicycle

The cross reference of related application

The application requires the preceence of the U.S. Patent application 60/610,273 submitted on September 15th, 2004, and this U.S. Patent application by reference and incorporated herein.

Background of the present invention

A. invention field

Relate generally to bicycle of the present invention more particularly, the present invention relates to be used for the suspension of bicycle rear wheel.

B. background technology

Rear suspension system usually is used for bicycle, especially usually is used for mountain bike.The s Mountainbike bicycle rider may run into the motion of rough topography (for example ground hole, rock, or the like).Sometimes, bicycle rider also makes bicycle jump over natural or artificial obstacle to come by bike.When riding rugged and rough area or when bicycle is takeoff, rear suspension system helps to reduce the impact sensation that bicycle rider is felt because of the power that is applied on the rear wheel.When impact force action was on rear wheel, rear suspension system allowed rear wheel to move with respect to bicycle frame, and this is used for absorbing impact again.Many available on the market rear suspension systems allow the rear wheel of bicycle to advance on the particular path specified by the suspension physique.Basically, the rear wheel path is for good and all fixing by the back suspension design.The differential responses that different rear wheels path causes bicycle to be handled.Therefore, a rear wheel path that is suitable for specific bicycle rider or state may be not suitable for another bicycle rider or state.

General introduction of the present invention

Many aspects of the present invention relate to the rear suspension system that is used for bicycle.Rear suspension system is used for coming the impulsive force of sorption on bicycle by the rear wheel that allows bicycle with respect to the displacement of bicycle remainder.The structure of rear suspension system and geometric configuration provide the travel path of rear wheel.The embodiment of rear suspension system can comprise at least two pivotal joint joints that are used for various bicycle component is linked together.The pivotal joint joint also can be configured for along the translation of corresponding path, like this, just can various mode be configured for providing different rear wheels path.The various different components of the embodiment of rear suspension system also can be regulated, so that influence the travel path and the lever ratio of the rear wheel of bicycle, to be fit to the preference of bicycle rider.In addition, the pivotal joint joint can be configured for alleviating from the drive train of bicycle and/or brake system and be applied to power on the rear suspension system.In one aspect of the invention, a kind of bicycle comprises: first framework, second framework, the first pivot translation assembly and the second pivot translation assembly.First framework links by the first pivot translation assembly and the second pivot translation assembly and second framework.

In another form of the present invention, a kind of bicycle comprises: framework; The front vehicle wheel that rotatably links to each other with framework; Rear suspension system; And the rear wheel that rotatably links to each other with rear suspension system.Rear suspension system comprises first parts; With first parts and the operationally joining first pivot translation assembly of framework; And with first parts and the operationally joining second pivot translation assembly of framework.

In another form of the present invention, a kind of bicycle comprises: the framework that comprises the head pipe; The head tube that links to each other with the head pipe; The seat tubes that links to each other with head tube; Downward pipe that links to each other with the head pipe and the bottom bracket that has downward pipe, and with the operationally joining front vehicle wheel of head pipe.Bicycle also comprises rear suspension system, and it comprises the first connecting rod that links to each other pivotally with framework; The master pendulum arm that links to each other pivotally with first connecting rod; The guide member that links to each other with framework; And second connecting rod, it links to each other pivotally with master pendulum arm and movably engages with guide member.In addition, bicycle is included between framework and the rear suspension system bonded assembly dampening assembly pivotally; And the rear wheel that rotatably links to each other with rear suspension system.

In another form of the present invention, a kind of bicycle comprises: framework; Rear suspension system, it comprises at least one first connecting rod that links to each other pivotally with framework; At least one master pendulum arm that links to each other pivotally with at least one first connecting rod; At least one guide rail that links to each other with framework; And link to each other pivotally with master pendulum arm and with joining at least one second connecting rod of at least one guide rail.Described bicycle also comprises at least one dampening assembly that links to each other pivotally with framework and rear suspension system.

In another form of the present invention, a kind of bicycle comprises: first framework, and it comprises first pivot and second pivot; Second framework; The mechanism that first pivot and second framework are connected together versatilely; And the mechanism that second pivot and second framework are connected together versatilely.

The feature of the various embodiment of the present invention, practicality and advantage will from shown in the accompanying drawing and the embodiment of the invention that claims limited following can be clearer more specifically describing.

Brief description

Fig. 1 is combined with the right side view of rear suspension system bicycle according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 2 is the front right-side perspective view of the front baffle and the rear suspension system of bicycle shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 3 is the front baffle of bicycle shown in Figure 1 and the lower right side block diagram of rear suspension system.

Fig. 4 is the front baffle of bicycle shown in Figure 1 and the left rear side block diagram of rear suspension system.

Fig. 5 is the left underside perspective view of the front baffle and the rear suspension system of bicycle shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 6 is the right back leg-of-mutton right side view of bicycle shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 7 is the right side view of the front baffle of bicycle shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 8 is the front baffle of bicycle shown in Figure 1 and the right side view of rear suspension system.

Fig. 9 is the front baffle of bicycle shown in Figure 1 and the right side view of rear suspension system, and wherein right back triangle is removed.

Figure 10 is the cutaway view of the first pivot translation assembly shown in Figure 9 along line 10-10.

Figure 11 is the cutaway view of the first pivot translation assembly shown in Figure 9 along line 11-11.

Figure 12 is a kind of alternative guide rail and the cutaway view of slider connecting rod (slider link) structure.

Figure 13 A is the right side view of dampening assembly and right guide rail.

Figure 13 B is the right side view that is in the dampening assembly shown in Figure 13 of part compression stage.

Figure 14 A is first right side view at preceding track (track) assembly.

Figure 14 B is second right side view at preceding rail assembly.

Figure 14 C is the 3rd right side view at preceding rail assembly.

Figure 15 A is the right side view of bicycle shown in Figure 1, has shown that rear suspension system is in the part compression stage.

Figure 15 B is the right side view of framework shown in Figure 15 A and rear suspension system.

Figure 15 C is the right side view of framework shown in Figure 15 B and rear suspension system, and wherein right back triangle is removed.

Figure 16 A is the right side view of bicycle shown in Figure 1, has shown the rear suspension system that is in the full compression stage.

Figure 16 B is the right side view of framework shown in Figure 16 A and rear suspension system.

Figure 16 C is the right side view of framework shown in Figure 16 B and rear suspension system, and wherein right back triangle is removed.

Figure 17 is the right side view that is in not compression stage shown in dotted line and full compression stage and is in the rear suspension system of the part compression stage shown in solid line.

Figure 18 A is the diagram figure that is used for four different rear wheel paths in preceding rail assembly orientation.

Figure 18 B is diagram figure, has shown to be used for four different chain-stay (chainstay) length that change along with the change of rear wheel upright position in preceding rail assembly orientation.

Figure 18 C is diagram figure, has shown to be used for four different lever ratios that change along with the change of rear wheel upright position in preceding rail assembly orientation.

Figure 19 is the right side view of framework, rear suspension system and rear wheel according to third embodiment of the invention.

Figure 20 is in the front baffle shown in Figure 19 of compression stage and the right side view of rear suspension system, and wherein rear wheel is removed.

Figure 21 is the lateral side view of front baffle shown in Figure 20, and wherein rear frame is removed.

Figure 22 is the right side view of front baffle shown in Figure 20, and wherein rear frame is removed.

Figure 23 is a right back leg-of-mutton right side view shown in Figure 21.

Figure 24 is the detailed view of the first pivot translation assembly shown in Figure 19.

Figure 25 A is the left front block diagram at preceding track shown in Figure 24.

Figure 25 B is the right back block diagram at preceding track shown in Figure 24.

Figure 25 C is the front elevation at preceding rail assembly shown in Figure 24.

Figure 25 D is the block diagram in preceding track link body.

Figure 26 is the detailed view of the second pivot translation assembly shown in Figure 19.

Figure 27 A is the preceding stereogram of bottom view at the back track shown in Figure 26.

Figure 27 B is the preceding top perspective view at the back track shown in Figure 26.

Figure 27 C is the backplan at the back track shown in Figure 26.

Figure 27 D is the block diagram of back track link body.

Figure 28 is the right side view of the track of radius variable.

Figure 29 A is the left side view of bicycle that comprises the 3rd embodiment of rear suspension system, and wherein left back triangle is removed.

Figure 29 B is the left side view that comprises the bicycle of rear suspension system the 3rd embodiment, and wherein right back triangle is removed.

Figure 30 A is the right side view of bicycle shown in Figure 29 A and the 29B, and wherein rear suspension system is in relative compression stage.

Figure 30 B is the detailed view of rear suspension system shown in Figure 30 A, and wherein right back triangle is removed.

Figure 30 C is the detailed view of rear suspension system shown in Figure 30 A, and wherein right back triangle is removed.

Figure 31 A is the right perspective view of front baffle, rear frame and rear suspension system shown in Figure 29 A and the 29B.

Figure 31 B is the detailed view of the first and second pivot translation assemblies shown in Figure 31 A, and wherein right back triangle is removed.

Figure 32 A is the right back leg-of-mutton right side view of the bicycle among Figure 31 A.

Figure 32 B is the left back leg-of-mutton left side view of the bicycle among Figure 31 A.

Figure 32 C is the right side view of the front baffle of the bicycle among Figure 31 A.

Figure 33 A is that the first pivot translation assembly shown in Figure 31 A is along the cutaway view of line 33A-33A.

Figure 33 B be among Figure 31 A bicycle at preceding track with at the block diagram of front slide device connecting rod.

Figure 33 C is a track and at the exploded drawings of front slide device connecting rod before Figure 33 B is shown in.

Figure 33 D is that the first pivot translation assembly shown in Figure 33 B is along the cutaway view of line 33D-33D.

Figure 33 E is that the first pivot translation assembly shown in Figure 33 B is along the cutaway view of line 33E-33E.

Figure 34 A is the detailed view of the rear rail and the back slider connecting rod of bicycle shown in Figure 31 A.

Figure 34 B is the exploded drawings of rear rail shown in Figure 34 A and back slider connecting rod.

Figure 35 A is in relative first scheme drawing according to the rear suspension system of third embodiment of the invention in the compression stage not.

Figure 35 B has described to be in rear suspension system shown in Figure 35 A of second portion compression stage.

Rear suspension system shown in Figure 35 A in full compression stage in the depth of the night that Figure 35 C having described to be in.

Figure 36 A is the diagram figure that is used for the rear wheel path of three different guide rail orientations.

Figure 36 B is diagram figure, has shown the chain-stay length that changes along with the change of rear wheel upright position that is used for three different guide rail orientations.

Figure 36 C is diagram figure, has shown the chain-stay length that changes along with the change of rear wheel upright position that is used for three different guide rail orientations.

Figure 36 D is diagram figure, has shown the lever ratio that changes along with the change of rear wheel upright position that is used for three different guide rail orientations.

Figure 37 A is in relative first scheme drawing according to the rear suspension system of fourth embodiment of the invention of compression stage not.

Figure 37 B has described to be in rear suspension system shown in Figure 37 A of second portion compression stage.

Rear suspension system shown in Figure 37 A in full compression stage in the depth of the night that Figure 37 C having described to be in.

Detailed description of the present invention

The invention provides the rear suspension system that is used for bicycle.Rear suspension system passes through the rear wheel of permission bicycle with respect to the displacement of bicycle remainder, and is used for the impulsive force of sorption on bicycle.These power may be because cross the motion of rough topography (for example ground hole, rock, or the like) by bike.By the displacement of rear wheel, rear suspension system can allow rear wheel to move to the second place from general primary importance.Rear suspension system can be used for making rear wheel to get back to general primary importance then.The structure of rear suspension system and geometric configuration provide wherein rear wheel being subjected to various power mobile travel path.As described below, the embodiment of rear suspension system can comprise at least two pivotal joint joints, is used for various bicycle component is linked together.The pivotal joint joint also may be along the translation of corresponding path, like this, just can various mode be configured for the wheel path that provides different.

As known in the art, the lever ratio of rear suspension system also can influence bicycle rider " sensation " to rear suspension system when the rear wheel displacement.Following described in more detail, lever ratio can be restricted to the rear wheel total kilometrage divided by total vibrations stroke.Different rear wheels path can be bicycle with lever ratio provides different sensations, and causes bicycle to make different responses when running into coarse rough topography.According to the preference of specific bicycle rider, a kind of wheel path and/or lever ratio may not be the hobbies of another bicycle rider.Many existing rear suspension systems only provide a kind of rear wheel path and/or lever ratio curve, its structure by rear suspension system and geometry design and for good and all fixing.The embodiment of rear suspension system of the present invention can regulate by the user, so that influence the travel path and the lever ratio of the rear wheel of bicycle, to be fit to the preference of bicycle rider.More particularly, embodiments of the invention provide adjustable travel path for being used for the pivotal joint joint that rear suspension system is connected on the bicycle frame.Although rear suspension system is introduced with reference to representative type bicycle shown in the drawings, should be appreciated that rear suspension system can be used for having with shown in this paper with shown in the bicycle of different framework pattern.In addition, although mainly introduced described system and method with reference to bicycle,, the present invention is applicable to other vehicle, for example scooter and motor bike.

As previously described, comprise can be along at least two pivotal joint joints of respective paths translation for the embodiment of rear suspension system.The pivotal joint joint can be configured for rear frame is connected on the front baffle.Like this, the pivotal joint joint can be configured for providing various rear wheel path and lever ratio.In addition, the pivotal joint joint can be configured for alleviating the power that rear suspension system applies from the drive train and/or the brake system of bicycle.For example, the embodiment of rear suspension system can be included in the second pivotal joint joint of first pivotal joint joint of translation on the general horizontal direction and translation on the approximate vertical direction.In this class example, rear wheel path and lever ratio are mainly specified by the first pivotal joint joint, and the second pivotal joint joint is mainly used in and alleviates drive train and/or braking force.

Fig. 1 has shown bicycle 100, and it comprises the rear suspension system 102 according to first embodiment of the invention.Bicycle 100 is supported with rolling by front vehicle wheel 104 and rear wheel 106.Bicycle rider can utilize steering swivel system 108 by rotating front vehicle wheel 104 towards required direct of travel, comes bicycle operated 100.Bicycle 100 also comprises the seat 110 that links to each other with front baffle 112, and it can be used for supporting bicycle rider.Following described in more detail, rear suspension system comprises by the first pivot translation assembly 116 and the second pivot translation assembly 118 and front baffle 112 joining rear frames 114.Rear suspension system 102 also can comprise dampening assembly 120, and it can be configured for front baffle 112 and rear frame 114 are linked.Yet, be appreciated that dampening assembly 120 will directly not link with rear frame 114 by front baffle 112.For example, in other embodiments of the invention, dampening assembly 120 can link to each other with the first pivot translation assembly 116 or the second pivot translation assembly 118 with front baffle 112.Although the part of back suspension assembly is described and is shown as the rear frame of being made by the various different parts that link together, be appreciated that rear frame may be made in single or parts.

Shown in Fig. 1-5, front baffle 112 can comprise head pipe 122, and head tube 124 manages 126 downwards, bottom bracket 128 and seat tubes 130.Head tube 124 is managed 122 from the head and is extended back, so that link to each other with the top of seat tubes 130, and manages 126 downwards and manages 122 from the head and backward and down extend, so that link to each other with bottom bracket 128.Front baffle 112 as herein described has utilized " seat tubes of interrupting " design, and wherein seat tubes 130 does not extend to bottom bracket 128 from head tube 124 always.Be appreciated that in other belfry seat tubes can be extended and links to each other with bottom bracket from head tube.Referring to Fig. 1, the seat or the saddle 110 that are used to support bicycle rider link to each other with seat pillar 132.In some constructions, seat pillar can releasably be contained in the seat tubes 130, so the seat is adjustable with respect to the height of framework.

As shown in Figure 1, steering swivel system 108 comprises the handlebar 134 that links to each other with the top of front fork parts 136.Handlebar 134 all rotatably links to each other with head pipe 122 with front fork parts 136.Front vehicle wheel 104 rotatably links to each other with the lower part of front fork parts 136, as known in the art.Rotating handlebar 134 on specific direction just causes front vehicle wheel 104 to rotate along same direction.Like this, the user can be by rotating handlebar 134 bicycle operated 100 on required direct of travel.Following described in more detail, rear wheel 106 rotatably links to each other with back hanging frame 114 by hind axle 138.

Shown in Fig. 1-5, bottom bracket 128 links to each other with the end portion of downward pipe 126.Bottom bracket 128 rotatably supports crank shaft 140, and described crank shaft 140 has the crank arm 142 that therefrom radially extends on two opposite directions.Stretcher 144 rotatably links to each other with crank arm.The drive sprocket 146 that links to each other with crank shaft 140 links to each other with rear sprocket assembly 150 by chain 148 usually, and rear sprocket assembly 150 links with rear wheel 106.When bicycle rider applied application force to pedal 144, this application force just was passed to rear sprocket assembly 150 by drive sprocket 146 and chain 148, caused rear wheel 106 rotations.The rotation of rear wheel changes into travelling forward of bicycle 100.

Shown in Fig. 1-6, rear frame 114 comprises right back triangle and left back triangle 152,154.Usually, right and left top component 156,158, bottom part 160,162, and forwardly part 164,166 links together, to form corresponding right back triangle and left back triangle 152,154.Because right back triangle and left back triangle are mirror image each other on substantially, so, referring to the description of the Fig. 6 that has only shown right back triangle 152 applicable to left back triangle 154.As shown in Figure 6, the rear end part of top component 156 links to each other with the rear end part of bottom part 160.In addition, the rear end part of top and bottom part 156,160 links to each other and triangular shaped back attachment (joint member) 168.Right and left back attachment 168,170 comprise trailing wheel axis hole 172, and it is suitable for accepting and rotatably supports the hind axle 138 of rear wheel 106.The fore-end of top component 156 links to each other with the upper part of part 164 forwardly by the triangular shaped first pivot joint parts 174.Right and the left first pivot joint parts 174,176 comprise first pivot hole 178, and it is suitable for accepting to define first pivotal axis 180 of first pivot 182, and is following described in more detail.The fore-end of bottom part 160 links to each other with the base section of part 164 forwardly by the triangular shaped second pivot joint parts 184.Right and the left second pivot joint parts 184,186 comprise second pivot hole 188, and it is suitable for accepting to define second pivotal axis 190 of second pivot 192, and is following described in more detail.Be appreciated that rear frame can be configured to by various types of materials, aluminium for example, carbon, and titanium.The parts that are used to construct rear frame also can limit hollow tubular structure, maybe can have solid structure.

As previously described, rear frame 114 links with front baffle 112 by the first and second pivot translation assemblies 116,118.In a following embodiment described in more detail referring to Fig. 1-5, the first pivot translation assembly 116 comprise be suitable for along range of movement guide first pivot 182 at preceding rail assembly 194, and the second pivot translation assembly 118 comprises right guide rail and the left rail 196,198 that is suitable for guiding along certain range of movement second pivot 192.Like this, front baffle 112 can comprise various structural constituent, and it is used to support the part of the first and second pivot translation assemblies 116,118.For example, shown in Fig. 2-5, the guide rail 196,198 of the rail assembly 194 and the first and second pivot translation assemblies 116,118 before the right side that links to each other with front baffle 112 and left track support 200,202 and rail brackets 204,206 are respectively applied for and are supported on.

As Fig. 2-5 and shown in Figure 7, right and left track support 200,202 links to each other with seat tubes 130 with head tube 124 and therefrom extends, so that link to each other with downward pipe 126.Because right and left track support 200,202 is mirror image each other basically, so, referring to the description of the Fig. 7 that has only shown right track support 200 applicable to left track support 202.Right and left track support is formed by plate, keeps spaced each other when linking to each other with framework, so that limit the gap between the support.Referring to Fig. 7, each track support 200,202 by general triangular shaped forwardly divide 208 and the trailing portion 210 of general Y shape limit.Each track support forwardly divide 208 to comprise general smooth upper and lower edge 212,214, and link to each other with downward pipe 126 at front edge 216.What in addition, forward and backward track connecting bore 218,220 was positioned proximate to each track support forwardly divides 208 upper limb 212.The trailing portion 210 of each track support 200,202 comprises upper and lower edge 222,224, and lagging dege 226, and it has the recess 228 that defines extension 230 and lower extension 232.Last extension 230 links to each other with head tube 124, and lower extension 228 links to each other with seat tubes 130.Simultaneously can not sacrifice intensity for the weight that alleviates track support, forwardly divide and can limit by the web-type structure at trailing portion.For example, as shown in Figure 7, the web-type structure is by limiting from the branch forwardly of track support 200,202 with in the formed triangular shaped part 234 of material that trailing portion 208,210 is removed.Be appreciated that track support can various mode link to each other with framework, for example by welding or bolted connection.Following described in more detail referring to Figure 10, link to each other with left track support and by its support with right at preceding rail assembly 194.

Again referring to Fig. 2-5 and 7, right and left rail support 204,206 links to each other with bottom bracket 128 and therefrom extends, so that link to each other with the corresponding right side and left track support 200,202.Because right and left rail support 204,206 is mirror image each other basically, so, referring to the introduction of the Fig. 7 that has only shown right rail brackets 204 applicable to left rail support 206.As shown in Figure 7, rail brackets 204,206 comprises the lower part 236 that links to each other with bottom bracket 128, and the top 238 that links to each other with track support 200,202.As shown in the figure, the lower part 236 of rail brackets 204,206 is welded on the bottom bracket 128, and the top 238 of rail brackets is on the trailing portion 210 of support point of connection 240 bolt togethers at respective rail support 200,202.Following described in more detail, referring to Figure 11,13A and 13B, dampening assembly 120 also are connected between right and the left track support 200,202 at support point of connection 240, and at support point of connection 240, rail brackets 204,206 bolt togethers are on track support.Be appreciated that rail brackets needn't link to each other with track support with framework in the manner illustrated.For example, rail brackets can be welded on the track support and/or bolt together on bottom bracket.Be similar to right and left track support 200,202, rail brackets 204,206 is formed by plate, and spaced each other when linking to each other with front baffle 112, so that the gap between the qualification support.The top 238 of each rail brackets 204,206 usually is configured as and is similar to the triangle that has hollow central portion 242, and the lower part 236 of each rail brackets usually is configured as and is similar to the rectangle that has hollow central portion 244.The top of rail brackets and lower part also define along the lower part indent zone 246 that 236 lagging dege extends, and it comprises head rail connecting bore 248 and bottom guide track connecting bore 250.Following described in more detail referring to Figure 11, right guide rail and left rail 196,198 link to each other with right and left rail support 204,206 and are supported by them.

As previously described, the first pivot translation assembly 116 and the second pivot translation assembly 118 link rear frame 114 and front baffle 112.More particularly, the first pivot translation assembly is with Vee formation shape 152,154 the right side and left first pivot joint 174,176 with at preceding rail assembly 194, and the second pivot translation assembly 118 is with the right side and left second pivot joint 184 of Vee formation shape, 186 link with right guide rail and left rail 196,198.

Structure that forms between rear frame 114 and front baffle 112 by the first pivot translation assembly 116 and the relation of matching are shown among Fig. 2 and the 8-10.Shown in Fig. 8-10, the right side of Vee formation shape 152,154 and left first pivot joint 174,176 by cylindrical bearing 252 with link at preceding rail assembly 194, shown in cylindrical bearing 252 rotatably link to each other with first pivotal axis 180.Cylindrical bearing 252 comprises right bearing 254, centre bearer 256 and left bearing 258, and is suitable for along rolling back and forth at preceding rail assembly 194.Shown in Fig. 2 and 10, comprise the top rail parts 260 of bolt together on base track parts 262 at preceding rail assembly 194.The rim 264 that extends along the bottom side of base track parts 262 that comprises forward and backward track connecting bore 266,268 is used for base track parts 262 and right and left track support 200,202.More particularly, base track parts 262 link to each other with front baffle 112, promptly, by rim 264 is inserted right and left track support 200, between 202, so that with on the base track parts preceding and back track connecting bore 266,268 be positioned to track support on track connecting bore 218,220 aim at.Bolt 270 can insert in the track connecting bore then, so that base track parts and track support are connected together.As shown in Figure 2, be used for top rail parts 260 are connected with base track parts 262 at four bolts 272 that insert in the opposed end office of preceding rail assembly 194.Later referring to Figure 10, the bottom side of top rail parts 260 defines the face of getting on the right track 274, and the bottom side of base track parts 262 defines lower railway face 276.When the top rail parts linked to each other with the base track parts, separately one section distance that is slightly larger than cylindrical bearing 252 diameters of face 274 and lower railway face 276 got on the right track.Be appreciated that at preceding rail assembly and the bearing that is associated and form by various types of materials structures, for example corrosion-resistant steel and titanium.

Shown in Fig. 8-10, first pivotal axis 180 extends between the upper and lower orbital plane 274,276 at preceding rail assembly 194 from first pivot hole 178 of right first pivot joint 174, and is connected with first pivot hole 178 of left first pivot joint 176.Like this, three cylindrical bearings 252 that link to each other with first pivotal axis 180 just are positioned between the upper and lower orbital plane of preceding rail assembly.These three cylindrical bearings 252 are general cylinder form, and define the rolling surface that is suitable for the substantially flat that engages with orbital plane at preceding rail assembly.As shown in figure 10, upper and lower orbital plane 274,276 has corresponding right boss and left boss 278,280, and it defines right track 282, intermediate orbit 284 and left track 286.The width of right track 282, intermediate orbit 284 and left track 286 is slightly larger than right cylindrical bearing 254, middle cylindrical bearing 256 and the axis of a cylinder that rolls left and holds 258 respective width.As previously described, the distance between the upper and lower orbital plane of preceding rail assembly is slightly larger than the respective diameters of cylindrical bearing.

Following described in more detail, along with rear suspension system 102 moves in response to the displacement of rear wheel 106, cylindrical bearing 252 rolls back and forth along respective track.Although cylindrical bearing can freely roll back and forth along respective track,, the power that is applied on the rear suspension system can act on first pivotal axis on the direction up and down.In response to the power up and down that is applied on first pivotal axis, cylindrical bearing 252 can engage with upper and lower orbital plane 274,276.In addition, if first pivotal axis 182 to the right or the left side in a lateral direction with respect to being subjected to application force at preceding rail assembly 194, so, cylindrical bearing 252 will be positioned at upper and lower orbital plane 274, corresponding right boss on 276 and left boss 278,280 engage, and this will be used to forbid that antifriction-bearing box breaks away from preceding rail assembly.

Be appreciated that different embodiments of the invention can be utilized different cylindrical bearings and at preceding rail assembly structure, so that required intensity and motion characteristics is provided.For example, in one embodiment of the invention, left and right cylindrical bearing 254,258 is configured for rolling along the lower railway face 276 at preceding rail assembly 194 usually, and centre bearer 256 is configured for rolling along the face that gets on the right track 274 at preceding rail assembly usually.In another embodiment, only be that centre bearer 284 is configured in response to acting on the transverse force on first pivotal axis 180 and engages with the right boss and the left boss 278,280 of orbital plane.Be further appreciated that other embodiment can utilize the cylindrical bearing greater or less than three.Be further appreciated that the first pivot translation assembly is not limited to use at preceding rail assembly and the bearing that is associated, and like this, can use other mechanism.For example, other embodiment of the first pivot translation assembly 116 can comprise guide rail and slider connecting rod structure, and other embodiment can comprise pin and groove structure.

Structure that forms between rear frame 114 and front baffle 112 by the second pivot translation assembly 118 and the relation of matching are shown in Fig. 8-9 and 11.Shown in Fig. 8-9 and 11, the right side of Vee formation shape 152,154 and left second pivot joint 184,186 link by slider connecting rod 288 and right guide rail and left rail 196,198, and described slider connecting rod 288 links to each other pivotally with second pivotal axis 190.As previously described, second pivotal axis 190 also defines second pivot 192.Following described in more detail, along with rear suspension system 102 moves in response to the displacement of rear wheel 106, slider connecting rod 288 is along right guide rail and left rail 196,198 move back and forth (perhaps moving up and down).Shown in Fig. 8-9 and 11, second pivotal axis 190 extends through slider connecting rod 288 from second pivot hole 188 of right second pivot joint 184, and arrives second pivot hole 188 of left second pivot joint 186.Like this, the slider connecting rod can rotate around second pivot pivotally with respect to right and left second pivot joint.

Shown in Fig. 9 and 11, right guide rail and left rail 196,198 are supported and are attached thereto by right and left rail support 204,206.More particularly, top and bottom guide track stop part 290,292 link to each other with bottom part with the top of left rail with right.In addition, utilize the bolt that passes in head rail connecting bore 248 and bottom guide track connecting bore 250 corresponding tops of insertion and the bottom guide track stop part, guide rail stop part 290,292 links to each other with rail brackets 204,206.Although rear suspension system can be configured such that the slider connecting rod can freely move back and forth and can not contact with the guide rail stop part along guide rail, but, top and bottom guide track stop part can be used for the range of movement of limit slippage device connecting rod, and forbid slider connecting rod getaway.

As shown in figure 11, right guide rail and left rail 196,198th, cylinder form, and have circular cross-sectional plane.Pass the corresponding right side and the left slider hole 294,296 that is arranged in slider connecting rod 288 by corresponding guide rail is inserted, and slider connecting rod 288 and right and left rail are linked.Like this, along with slide link moves along the length of guide rail, slider hole 294,296 moves back and forth along the outside face of guide rail 196,198.In order to alleviate the friction between slider connecting rod and the guide rail, slider hole 294,296 can be in line with bearing 298, and described bearing 298 is suitable for engaging with rolling with the outside face of guide rail 196,198.Be appreciated that and use various types of bearings.An example that is applicable to bearing assembly of the present invention is the Super Smart ball bushing bearing that Thomson Industries company makes ^TMExcept using bearing, other embodiments of the invention also can comprise the lining that is arranged on inboard, slider hole.The lining that is applicable to two kinds of exemplary types of the present invention is that the model that Igus company produces is the lining of TJUM03 and RJUM01.Be appreciated that other various other means also can be used for alleviating the friction between slider connecting rod and the guide rail, for example lubricant.Be further appreciated that guide rail and slider connecting rod can be configured to by various types of materials, corrosion-resistant steel for example, aluminium, and titanium.

Be appreciated that different embodiments of the invention can utilize different guide rails and slider connecting rod structure.For example, other embodiment can utilize greater or less than two guide rails.In addition, guide rail is not limited to have circular cross-sectional plane.For example, embodiment utilization has the guide rail 300 and the slider connecting rod 302 of shape of cross section shown in Figure 12.Be further appreciated that the second pivot translation assembly 118 is not limited to the slider connecting rod 288 that uses guide rail 196,198 and be associated, and like this, can use other device.For example, other embodiment of the second pivot translation assembly 118 can comprise and being similar to referring to the first pivot translation assembly, 116 aforesaid tracks and bearing setting, and other embodiment can comprise pin and groove structure.

As mentioned above, rear suspension system 102 also can comprise dampening assembly.Figure 13 A and 13B have shown an example of dampening assembly 120, and it comprises fluid reservoir 304 and the cylindrical body 306 that all links to each other with body cover 308.Be positioned at eyelet 310 on the top section of body cover 308 and be suitable for accepting being used for bolt 312 (seeing Figure 11) that rail brackets 204,206 and track support 200,202 are linked to each other at support point of connection 240 places.Like this, dampening assembly 120 links to each other with track support pivotally with guide rail, and so and can be with respect to front baffle 112 pivot type rotation.Dampening assembly 120 also comprises the axis of the piston 314 that links to each other with the piston head (not shown) that is positioned at cylindrical body 306.Be positioned at eyelet 316 on the base section of the axis of the piston and be suitable for accepting bolt 318 that dampening assembly 120 is linked to each other with slider connecting rod 288.Therefore, dampening assembly can rotate with respect to the slider connecting rod gudgeon.The piston head (not shown) is suitable in response to pulling force and/or pressure on the eyelet 310,316 that is applied on body cover 308 and the axis of the piston 314, and moves back and forth along the inside length of cylindrical body 306.For example, Figure 13 A has shown the dampening assembly 120 that is in relative uncompressed state.When pressure was applied on the eyelet on body cover and the axis of the piston, for example when slider connecting rod 288 during along right guide rail and left rail 196,198 upward movements, the axis of the piston 314 just was forced upwardly and to cylindrical body 306 medial movement shown in Figure 13 B.

Shown in Figure 13 A and Figure 13 B, dampening assembly 120 also comprises compression spring 320.Some embodiment of dampening assembly allow the initial compression setting of user's regulating spring.The compression spring 320 of dampening assembly 120 is used to resist the displacement of rear wheel 106 and the motion between former frame frame 114 and the front baffle 112, and is used to make rear wheel to get back to its displacement position before.Be included in the motion of piston head in cylindrical body that be used to decay of fluids in fluid reservoir 304 and the cylindrical body 306.Like this, dampening assembly has just been decayed and has been put on pulling force and/or pressure on body cover 308 and the axis of the piston 314.Therefore, dampening assembly makes rear wheel get back to the power of the compression spring 320 of its displacement position before by opposing from the power of rear wheel 106 initial displacements and from being used to, and as bumper.Be appreciated that dampening assembly is well known in the art, and various types of dampening assembly can be used for the present invention, for example oleo gear and air bumper.An example that is applicable to dampening assembly of the present invention is the DHX-5.0 that FOXRacing Shox company makes.

Be appreciated that dampening assembly 120 needn't with as mentioned above with shown in mode and link to each other with bicycle.For example, the axis of the piston 314 of dampening assembly 120 can link to each other with front baffle 112, and body cover 308 can link to each other with slider connecting rod 288.In addition, dampening assembly 120 can be configured to prolong along the rail length upward movement along with the slider connecting rod (or compression).In addition, although dampening assembly 120 can be configured for front baffle 112 and rear frame 114 are linked,, dampening assembly will front baffle and rear frame directly link.For example, in other embodiments of the invention, dampening assembly can link to each other with the first pivot translation assembly 116 with front baffle, or links to each other with the second pivot translation assembly 118 with front baffle 112.

When bicycle rider ran into rough topography or bicycle 100 is jumped up, impulsive force can act on the rear wheel 106 along the direction that generally makes progress.Impulsive force is passed to rear frame 114 by rear wheel wheel shaft 138 again.More particularly, impulsive force causes rear frame 114 to produce displacement on the direction of being stipulated by the geometric parameter and the structure of rear suspension system 102.The geometric parameter that may influence the displacement path of rear frame and rear wheel can comprise the position of first pivot 182; The position of second pivot 192; The shape and size of Vee formation shape 152,154; The shape and the orientation of preceding rail assembly 194; Shape and orientation with guide rail 196,198.

In aforesaid rear suspension system 102, the displacement of rear wheel 106 causes the displacement of Vee formation shape 152,154, and it causes the displacement of first and second pivots 182,192 again.First pivot 182 is limited by first pivotal axis 180, first pivotal axis 180 in response to the displacement of Vee formation shape along moving back and forth at preceding rail assembly 194.Like this, the motion parts ground of first pivot 182 is by shape and directed regulation at preceding rail assembly 194.Second pivot 192 is limited by slider axle 288, and slider axle 288 moves back and forth along right guide rail and left rail 196,198 in response to the displacement of Vee formation shape 152,154.Like this, the motion parts ground of second pivot 192 is stipulated by the shape and the orientation of right and left rail.In aforesaid rear suspension system 102, comprise smooth orbital plane and straight guide rail at preceding rail assembly 194 referring to Fig. 1-5.Like this, first and second pivots 182,192 move around along straight travel path.Shown in Fig. 1 and 8-9, be inclined upwardly at preceding rail assembly 194, so that between the horizontal datum 324 of track 194 and line of centers 326, limit track angle 322.In addition, guide rail 196,198 turns forward, so that be limited to guide rail angle 328 between vertical reference line 330 and the guide rail.According to specific rear suspension system structure, track can be different with the guide rail angle.For example, in one embodiment, track angle 322 is at horizontal datum 10 degree more than 324, and guide rail angle 328 be 10 to spend before vertical reference line 330.Following described in more detail, track and guide rail angle can also be adjustable.

As previously described, the embodiment of rear suspension system can provide adjustable wheel path according to the present invention.In one embodiment, first pivot, 182 travel paths and rear wheel path can be regulated in the shape and/or the orientation of preceding track 194 by changing.As mentioned above, at top rail parts 260 bolt togethers of preceding rail assembly 194 on base track parts 262.Base track parts 262 again bolt together a left side and right track support 200,202 on.Like this, can be by unclamping the bolted connection of top rail parts from the base track parts, and unclamp the bolted connection of base track parts from track support, pull down at preceding track.In case the base track parts unclamp from track support, the lifting that just can make progress of first pivotal axis 180 and the cylindrical bearing 252 that is associated is to allow to pull down the base track parts.The alternative position below preceding rail assembly can be arranged on first pivotal axis and cylindrical bearing then, and bolt together is on track support.But alternative top rail parts at preceding rail assembly then bolt together on base track.

At three kinds of preceding rail assembly different structures, will provide the different rows inbound path of track axle when Figure 14 A-14C has shown on being installed in bicycle, it influences the travel path of rear wheel again.First when preceding rail assembly 194 ' on being installed in bicycle shown in Figure 14 A, will cause first pivotal axis 180 (first pivot 182) with the first track angle 322 ' move around along straight path.Second at preceding rail assembly 194 shown in Figure 14 B " defines than the first upwards orbital plane of gradient at preceding rail assembly 194 ' steeper shown in Figure 14 A.Like this, second at preceding rail assembly 194 shown in Figure 14 B " on being installed in bicycle the time, will cause first pivotal axis (first pivot) with greater than the first track angle 322 ' the second track angle 322 " move around along straight path.The 3rd at preceding rail assembly 194 shown in Figure 14 C " ' define along its length and have the orbital plane that changes gradient.Like this, the 3rd at preceding rail assembly 194 shown in Figure 14 C " ' on being installed in bicycle the time, will cause first pivotal axis (first pivot) " to move around along the path with the track angle 322 that changes.For example, at first pivotal axis 180 (first pivot 182) from the 3rd rail assembly 194 " ' rear end 332 setting in motions the time, the preliminary orbit angle is bigger.Then, along with track axle (first pivot) continues to move towards the front end 334 of the 3rd rail assembly, the track angle diminishes.In addition, along with the front end 334 of track axle (first pivot) near the 3rd rail assembly, the track angle increases again.Be appreciated that other structure at preceding rail assembly can be used for the present invention, and should not be construed as and be limited to structure described here.Be further appreciated that in the shape and/or the orientation of preceding rail assembly and can make amendment, and need not to remove and replace.For example, the setting that is connected framework and the screw rod between preceding rail assembly or worm gear type can be used for handling and enters various orientation at preceding rail assembly with respect to framework.

Except by changing the shape of preceding rail assembly and/or orientation influence the rear wheel path, the shape that the travel path of second pivot 192 and rear wheel path also can be by changing guide rail 196,198 and/or directed and regulate.For example, in one embodiment, rail brackets 204,206 are configured to have extra head rail connecting bore 248 and bottom guide track connecting bore 250, so that allow the user to pass through with top and bottom guide track stop part 290,292 at the diverse location bolt together on rail brackets, change the orientation of guide rail.In other embodiments, straight guide rail is replaced by the guide rail of arcuate shape, to change the rear wheel path.Other embodiment provides the screw rod that is connected between framework and the guide rail or the setting of worm gear type, enters in the various orientation so that handle guide rail with respect to framework.

Fig. 1,15A has shown the rear suspension system 102 that is in different compression stages with 16A.More particularly, Fig. 1 has shown that with 8-9 rear wheel 106 and rear suspension system 102 are in the first relative not compression stage.As shown in the figure, first pivotal axis 180 (first pivot 182) is near the primary importance in the rear end 332 of preceding rail assembly 194.Second pivotal axis 190 (second pivot 192) is in the primary importance near the bottom 336 of guide rail 196,198.In addition, dampening assembly 120 is in first compression stage as shown in the figure.For example when bicycle rider is sitting in bicycle 100, is applicable to the upward force of rear wheel 106 or is applicable to that the downward force at seat 110 can make rear suspension system 102 be in the second portion compression stage, shown in Figure 15 A-15C.

The relatively demonstration of Fig. 1 and 8-9 and Figure 15 A-15C, first pivotal axis 180 (first pivot 182) be along the length at preceding rail assembly 194, and move forward in the rear end 332 of preceding rail assembly 194 and the second place between the front end 334.Simultaneously, the slider connecting rod 288 and second pivotal axis 190 (second pivot 192) be along the length of guide rail 196,198, and be moved upward to the bottom 336 of guide rail and the second place between the top 338.The upward movement of slider connecting rod 288 also forces the axis of the piston 314 upward movements of dampening assembly 120 and enters in the cylindrical body 306, so that dampening assembly is positioned in second compression stage.In addition, along with rear suspension system 102 from first not compression stage move to not compression stage of second portion ground, the Vee formation shape 152,154 of rear frame 114 is along clockwise direction (looking from the right side of bicycle) around first pivot 182 and second pivot 192 and pivoted.For example when bicycle rider and bicycle land after courbette, put on the relatively large upward force on the rear wheel 106 or put on big downward force on the seat 110, rear suspension system can be positioned at the 3rd full compression stage shown in Figure 16 A-16C.

The relatively demonstration of Figure 15 A-15C and Figure 16 A-16C, first pivotal axis 180 (first pivot 182) are further forward along moving near the 3rd position at preceding rail assembly 194 front ends 334 in the length of preceding rail assembly 194.Simultaneously, the slider connecting rod 288 and second pivotal axis 190 (second pivot 192) have further upwards moved to the 3rd position on the top 338 of close guide rail along the length of guide rail 196,198.The extra upward movement of slider connecting rod 288 also forces the axis of the piston 314 of dampening assembly 120 further to move up and enters in the cylindrical body 306, so that dampening assembly is placed in the 3rd compression stage.In addition, along with rear suspension system 102 from second portion ground not compression stage moved to for the 3rd full compression stage, the Vee formation shape 152,154 of rear frame 114 is pivoted along clockwise direction (looking from the right side of bicycle) around first pivot 182 and second pivot 192 and further.

By allowing rear wheel 106 and rear frame 114 as mentioned above via first and second pivots 182,192 and with respect to front baffle 112 motion, rear suspension system 102 just can be used for the impulsive force of sorption on bicycle 100, it can be to cause because of riding rough topography (rock for example, ground hole, or the like).As previously described, dampening assembly 120 is used to resist the displacement of rear wheel 106 and is used to make rear wheel to get back to its displacement position before.In addition, dampening assembly 120 comes from the power of rear wheel initial displacement by opposing and comes from and is used to make rear wheel to get back to the power of the compression spring 320 of the position before its displacement, and as bumper.Therefore, dampening assembly for example can be used for making rear suspension system to get back to the second portion compression stage shown in Figure 15 A-15C from the 3rd full compression stage shown in Figure 16 A-16C.

Shown more also that below the first and second pivot translation assemblies 116,118 are how by also can be along the pivotal joint joint of corresponding travel path translation and rear frame and front baffle 112 are linked.Never compression stage and full compression stage begin the distance that first and second pivots 182,192 are advanced when mobile and are called as effective travel distance along with rear suspension system 102.Be appreciated that in the not compression stage of rear suspension system and full compression various embodiment of the present invention can provide different effective travel distance of first pivot and second pivot between the stage.For example, in one embodiment, be 5.8 inches long, and effective travel distance of 5 inches of first pivotal axis 180 (first pivot 182) is provided at preceding rail assembly 194.In another example, effective travel distance of first pivotal axis (first pivot) is 2 inches.In the another one example, guide rail 196,198 is 5.5 inches long, and effective travel distance of 3 inches of second pivotal axis 190 (second pivot 192) is provided.

Figure 17 shown along with rear suspension system 102 from first not compression stage move to the second portion compression stage and move to the 3rd full compression during the stage, rear frame 114 is with respect to the motion of front baffle 112.Rear frame 114 is in the second portion compression stage shown in solid line, and shown in dotted linely is in for first not compression stage and the 3rd full compression stage.As previously described, shown along with rear suspension system from first not compression stage moved to for the 3rd full compression stage, Vee formation shape is along clockwise direction around first pivotal axis 180 (first pivot 182) and second pivotal axis 190 (second pivot 192) and pivoted.Simultaneously, first pivotal axis (first pivot) is along moving forward at preceding rail assembly 194, and first pivotal axis (second pivot) and slider connecting rod are along guide rail 196,198 upward movements.

Figure 17 also shown along with rear suspension system 102 from first not compression stage move to the second portion compression stage and move to the 3rd full compression during the stage, the level attitude of rear wheel and the variation of upright position.Apart from dH1 and dV1 representative along with the level attitude of rear suspension system hind axle 138 when compression stage does not move to the second portion compression stage from first and the variation of upright position, and represent along with rear suspension system moves to the 3rd full compression during the stage from the second portion compression stage level attitude of hind axle and the variation of upright position respectively apart from dH2 and dV2.As shown in figure 17, dV1 and dV2 are longer than dH1 and dH2 respectively far away, and this shows that along with rear suspension system is compressed, rear wheel is in vertical direction than having moved bigger distance in the horizontal direction.Although Figure 17 shows, in the time of along with the hind axle upward movement, hind axle 138 also moves on general horizontal direction forward, but be appreciated that, along with rear suspension system from first not compression stage move to second portion compression stage and the 3rd full compression stage, hind axle also can be in traveling process moves on horizontal direction backward.

Referring to Fig. 1 as mentioned above, when bicycle rider applied application force to pedal 144, this application force just was passed to rear sprocket assembly 150 by sprocket wheel 146 and chain 148, thereby caused rear wheel 106 rotations.Utilize some rear suspension systems, be applied on the pedal and part energy by chain just causes rear suspension system to actuate or compress by bicycle rider.This just causes the waste of energy, otherwise described energy can be used for rotating drive rear wheels.Rear suspension system according to the present invention helps to alleviate this waste of power, because second pivot shown in Figure 17 and rear frame mainly move on the direction of the application force that applies by the chain on the rear wheel perpendicular to bicycle rider.Like this, the less energy that applies by bicycle rider just can unnecessarily not wasted when rear suspension system is actuated or compress.

Figure 17 also shown along with rear suspension system from first not compression stage move to the second portion compression stage and move to the 3rd full compression during the stage, the variation of chain-stay length.Chain-stay length can be restricted to the distance between the center of the center of bottom bracket 128 and hind axle 138.As described below, chain-stay length increases along with the displacement of rear wheel 106.Typically, chain-stay length is big more, and then chain must be longer, and vice versa.Can help to keep suitable tensile force on the chain with chain 148 and rear sprocket assembly 150 joining back known in the art derailers, and allow the variation of chain-stay length simultaneously.As shown in figure 17, distance C SL1, CLS2 and CSL3 represent respectively when rear suspension system and are in first compression stage, second portion compression stage and the 3rd full compression chain-stay length the during stage not.Because in vertical direction than moving fartherly in the horizontal direction, the distance between hind axle 138 and the bottom bracket 128 (being chain-stay length) is along with rear suspension system increases by compression when rear suspension system is compressed for hind axle 138 shown in Figure 17.

As mentioned above, the various different components of rear suspension system 102 of the present invention can be regulated by the user, so that influence the travel path of the rear wheel 106 of bicycle 100, to be fit to the preference of bicycle rider.How figure shown in Figure 18 A-18C can influence rear wheel path, chain-stay length (CSL) and lever ratio by shape and/or the orientation that changes at preceding rail assembly 194 if having shown.More particularly, Figure 18 A-18C respectively comprises and is similar to referring to Fig. 8 and the aforesaid rail assembly 194 of 14A-14B, 194 ', 194 " four groups of data corresponding to three different track angles 322 (promptly at horizontal datum shown in Figure 8 10 more than 324 degree, 14.8 degree and 19.6 degree), and be similar to aforesaid rail assembly 194 referring to Figure 14 C " ' the corresponding one group of data of variable inclined plane assembly.

Figure 18 A illustrates along with rear suspension system moves to second higher compression during stage from the first low compression stage, corresponding to four aforesaid do not coexist before four different rear wheels paths of orientation of orbit.Y-axis line 340 representatives shown in Figure 18 A are the rear wheel upright position of unit with the millimeter, and 342 representatives of X-axis line are the rear wheel level attitude of unit with the millimeter.Shown in Figure 18 A, whole four track constructions provide the rear wheel path of analogous shape.More particularly, for whole four track constructions, along with rear wheel 106 begins to move in the vertical direction, rear wheel 106 also moves with respect to front baffle 112 on horizontal direction backward.In case the distance of one section about 100mm of rear wheel displacement vertically, rear wheel begin to advance on horizontal direction forward for its remaining travel path.Shown in Figure 18 A, 10 degree provide the horizontal throw backward of maximum in preceding track angle, and 14.8 and 19.6 degree provide the horizontal throw backward that diminishes gradually in preceding track angle, and variable track construction provides the horizontal throw backward of minimum.Like this, along with track angle 322 increases (promptly being inclined upwardly manyly at preceding rail assembly 194), along with rear wheel upward movement in vertical direction, rear wheel 106 is being advanced still less with respect to front baffle on the horizontal direction backward.Correspondingly, along with the track angle diminishes (promptly downward-sloping at preceding rail assembly), along with rear wheel upward movement in vertical direction, rear wheel is being advanced manyly with respect to front baffle on the horizontal direction backward.The embodiment that is appreciated that rear suspension system can be configured for providing be shown in Figure 18 A in different rear wheel paths.For example, some embodiment of rear suspension system can be configured such that rear wheel is being advanced on the horizontal direction backward in the whole perpendicular movement process of rear wheel.

Figure 18 B illustrates four groups of data, shown along with rear suspension system moved to for the second higher compression stage from the first low compression stage, the variation of chain-stay length (CSL) how along with aforesaid four do not coexist before orientation of orbit and changing.Y-axis line 344 representatives shown in Figure 18 B are the rear wheel upright position of unit with the millimeter, and 346 representatives of X-axis line are the variation of the chain-stay length of unit with the millimeter.Shown in Figure 18 B, for whole four track constructions, along with rear wheel vertically moves, the variation of chain-stay length just increases.For constant track angle configuration, 10 degree provide the maximum of chain-stay length variations to increase in preceding track angle, and 14.8 and 19.6 degree provide the increase that diminishes gradually of chain-stay length variations in preceding track angle.In addition, corresponding to the data display in preceding track angle of 10,14.8 and 19.6 degree, along with the rear wheel vertical shifting, the increment rate of chain-stay length variations is almost constant.Yet when variable track construction caused along with the rear wheel vertical shifting, the variation of chain-stay length was variable.More particularly, utilize variable track construction, the chain-stay length variations between the displacement of 50-175 millimeters of vertical rear wheel than during other rear wheel Bit Shift is put, increasing still less.

Figure 18 C illustrates four groups of data, shown along with rear suspension system moved to for the second higher compression stage from the first low compression stage, lever ratio how along with aforesaid four do not coexist before orientation of orbit and changing.As previously described, lever ratio can be defined as General Logistics Department's wheel travel divided by total vibrations stroke.Like this, for given dampening assembly, " softer " suspension that higher relatively lever ratio is felt corresponding to bicycle rider, " than rigidity " suspension that relatively low lever ratio is felt corresponding to bicycle rider.In other words, for the power on the rear wheel of putting on of giving sizing, compare with the suspension with lower lever ratio, the suspension with higher lever ratio will allow one section bigger distance of rear wheel displacement.Embodiments of the invention allow bicycle rider to change in preceding rail assembly orientation and/or shape so that required lever ratio is provided, and therefore provide along with rear wheel " sensation " of rear suspension system when travel path moves.For example, can be constructed to bicycle rider at preceding rail assembly such rear suspension system is provided, it is " than rigidity " in initial compression phase, is " softer " at the part compression stage, and is " than rigidity " at last compression stage.

Y-axis line 348 shown in Figure 18 C is represented lever ratio, and what X-axis line 350 was represented rear wheel 106 is the upright position of unit with the millimeter.Shown in Figure 18 C, 10.0,14.8 with 19.6 the degree track constructions relative higher initial lever ratio is provided, it is along with rear wheel reduces to top offset in vertical direction.Like this, be constructed with 10,14.8 and 19.6 degree the rear suspension system of preceding track construction will be in initial rear wheel displacement process sensation " softer ", and will move vertically upward and sensation " more rigidity " little by little along with rear wheel.Shown in Figure 18 C, 10 degree in preceding track angle along with the rear wheel displacement provides maximum lever ratio, and 14.8 and 19.6 degree provide the lever ratio that little by little diminishes in preceding track angle.Therefore, along with the track angle increases (promptly being inclined upwardly manyly at preceding rail assembly), then rear suspension system will provide correspondingly " more rigidity " sensation.Corresponding to data display shown in Figure 18 C of variable track structure, lever ratio is relatively low in initial rear wheel displacement process, but along with the rear wheel vertical displacement about 80 millimeters and increase.Lever ratio begins to reduce above 80 millimeters along with rear wheel continues its perpendicular movement then.Like this, the rear suspension system that is configured to have variable track construction will feel it is comparison " rigidity " in initial compression phase, be " softer " at the part compression stage, and be " more rigidity " at last compression stage.

The orientation and/or the geometric configuration that are appreciated that the various members of back suspension 102 can regulate and/or select, so that required rear wheel path and/or lever ratio is provided.Like this, operation of the present invention should not be regarded as being limited to the graphical data shown in Figure 18 A-18C.For example, embodiments of the invention can adopt and define other shape and directed forward and backward rail assembly, so that other track angle is provided.Like this, embodiments of the invention allow the user to select to be used for the required lever ratio curve of rear suspension system.

The bicycle 352 that comprises rear suspension system 354 second embodiment of some aspects as shown in figure 19 according to the present invention.More particularly, Figure 19 is a right side view, has shown front baffle 356, rear suspension system 352 and the rear wheel 106 of bicycle 352.Although in Figure 19, do not demonstrate, but be appreciated that, bicycle 354 can comprise aforesaid other component parts referring to Fig. 1 as shown in figure 19, for example front vehicle wheel 104, steering swivel system 108, seat 110, pedal 144, and by the joining each other preceding and rear sprocket assembly 146,150 of chain 148.

Be similar to aforesaid first embodiment, rear suspension system 354 shown in Figure 19 comprises rear frame 358, and it is by the first pivot translation assembly 360 and the second pivot translation assembly 362 and link with the front baffle 356 of bicycle 352.Rear suspension system 354 shown in Figure 19 also comprises dampening assembly 364, and it is similar to aforesaid dampening assembly.Although first and second embodiment of rear suspension system work in a similar fashion,, second embodiment 354 structurally can be different from the structure of first embodiment in many ways.Particularly, the first and second pivot translation assemblies 360,362 of second embodiment have the structure different with the first and second pivot translation assemblies 116,118 of above-mentioned first embodiment 102.For example, second rear suspension system 354 comprises and the different bearings and operationally joining first pivot 366 of track construction that are different from reference to aforesaid track of first embodiment and bearing construction.In addition, second pivot 368 and bearing and the track construction of second embodiment 354 operationally link, and this is with different with rail configurations with reference to the aforesaid slider connecting rod of first embodiment.

Front baffle 356 shown in Figure 20-22 is similar to the aforesaid front baffle 112 referring to Fig. 1-5.Like this, front baffle 356 comprises head pipe 370, and head tube 372 manages 374 downwards, bottom bracket 376 and seat tubes 378.Head tube 372 is managed 370 from the head and is extended back, so that link to each other with the top of seat tubes 378, and manages 374 downwards and manages 370 from the head and backward and down extend, so that link to each other with bottom bracket 376.Although front baffle 356 shown in Figure 22 has also utilized " seat tubes of interrupting " design, be appreciated that in other belfry seat tubes 378 can be extended from head tube 372, and link to each other with bottom bracket 376.

Be similar to aforesaid first embodiment, the rear frame 358 shown in Figure 20 and 23 also comprises right back triangle and left back triangle 380,382.Like this, right and left top component 384,386, bottom part 388,390 and forwardly part 392,394 link together, to form corresponding right back triangle and left back triangle.Yet the Vee formation shape 380,382 of second embodiment is configured to somewhat different than first embodiment.As shown in figure 23, the rear end part of the rear end part of top component 384,386 and bottom part 388,390 links to each other.In addition, the rear end part of top component and bottom part and triangular shaped back attachment 396,398 link to each other.Right and left back attachment 396,398 comprise trailing wheel axis hole 400, and it is suitable for accepting and rotatably supports the hind axle 138 of rear wheel 106.The fore-end of top component 384,386 links to each other with the top of part 392,394 forwardly, and the fore-end of bottom part 388,390 links to each other with the lower part of part 392,394 forwardly.Each forwardly part be general C shape, and comprise base portion part 402, described base portion part 402 have top to forward extension 404 and below to forward extension 406.A right and left side forwardly the top of part 392,394 comprises first pivot hole 408 to forward extension 404, and it is suitable for and the first pivotal joint joint 410 that defines first pivot 366 links, and is following described in more detail.A right and left side forwardly the following of part comprise second pivot hole 412 to forward extension 406, it is suitable for linking with the second pivotal joint joint 414 that defines second pivot 368, and is following described in more detail.Be appreciated that rear frame 358 can be configured to by various types of materials, aluminium for example, carbon, and titanium.The parts that are used for tectonic framework also can limit hollow tubular structure, maybe can have solid structure.

As first embodiment, the rear frame 358 of second embodiment of rear suspension system shown in Figure 19 links with front baffle 356 by the first and second pivot translation assemblies 360,362.As shown in figure 22, the first pivot translation assembly 360 comprise be suitable for along its range of movement guide first pivot 366 at preceding track 416, and the second pivot translation assembly 360 comprises the back track 418 that is suitable for guiding along range of movement second pivot 368.Therefore, front baffle 356 can comprise various structural constituent, so that support the part of the first and second pivot translation assemblies.For example, shown in Figure 21 and 22, the right side that links to each other with front baffle and left front track support 420,422 and the right side and left back track support 424,426 have supported at preceding track 416.In addition, back track 418 is supported with right and bottom left track support 432,434 by the right side that links to each other with front baffle and left top rail support 428,430.Although Figure 22 has only shown right track support,, left track support is the mirror image of right rail support basically, and also links to each other with framework.

As previously described, preceding track support 420,422 and back track support 424,426 support on the front baffles 356 at preceding track 416.Shown in Figure 21 and 22, stent support the pillar 436 that extends from the trailing portion of head tube 372 downwards, and is used for helping to support back track support 424,426 and top rail support 428,430.Preceding track support 420,422 links to each other with the support pin 438 that extends from the right side and the left side of downward pipe 374.Following described in more detail, preceding track support 420,422 comprises six pinholes 440 that are suitable for accepting support pin (stud) 438, and it allows the user to be connected on the different orientations with respect to front baffle 356 at preceding track 416.At fore-end 442 bolt togethers of preceding track 416 between right and left front track support 420,422, and should be between the right side and left back track support 424,426 at rear end part 444 bolt togethers of preceding track.

As previously described, top rail support 428,430 and base track support 432,434 are supporting the back track 418 on the front baffle 356.Referring to Figure 22, top rail support 428,430 extends downwards from stent support pillar 436.Base track support 432,434 links to each other with bottom bracket 376 and makes progress and extend back from bottom bracket 376.Top end part 446 bolt togethers of back track 418 are between right and left top rail support 430,432, and bottom part 448 bolt togethers of back track are between right and bottom left track support 432,434.

As first embodiment of rear suspension system 102, the first pivot translation assembly 360 of second rear suspension system 354 and the second pivot translation assembly 362 link up rear frame 358 and front baffle 356.More particularly, the first pivot translation assembly 360 with the right side of Vee formation shape 380,382 and a left side forwardly part 392,394 top to forward extension 404 with link at preceding track 316.In addition, the second pivot translation assembly 362 links the right side and the following of left part forwardly of Vee formation shape to forward extension 406 and back track 418.

As previously described, the first pivot translation assembly 360 of second rear suspension system 354 has adopted different as mentioned above bearing and the track constructions with reference first embodiment.Shown in Figure 19 and 24-25D, the first pivot translation assembly is included in preceding track connecting rod 450, and it is rotatably supporting and is being suitable for four cylindrical bearings 452 rolling back and forth along at preceding track 416.Like this, the part forwardly 392,394 of Vee formation shape 380,382 top to forward extension 404 just by preceding track connecting rod 450 with link at preceding track 416.Shown in Figure 25 D, comprise main body 454 at preceding track connecting rod 450, it has by fail-safe structure 460 separately and first side and second side 456,458 of the almost parallel that is attached thereto, and described fail-safe structure 460 has partly sealed at the bottom side of preceding track link body 454 and front side and rear side.Fail-safe structure 460 has been for providing intensity in preceding track link body, and helps to prevent to contact unintentionally with cylindrical bearing 452.Upper and lower first pivot hole 462,464 is positioned on each side of preceding track link body 454, so that be provided for the alternate location of the first pivotal joint joint 410 and Vee formation shape 380,382.Like this, the right side of Vee formation shape and a left side top can the linking pivotally with above or below first pivot hole 462,464 of part 392,394 forwardly to forward extension 404.Therefore, Vee formation shape can link to each other to first pivot hole with arbitrary on preceding track connecting rod, so that form different frame geometry, to be fit to the preference of bicycle rider.

As previously described, preceding track connecting rod 450 by cylindrical bearing 452 with link with rolling at preceding track 416.Shown in Figure 24-25B, the first track axle 466 and the second track axle 468 are being extended between first side of preceding track link body 454 and second side 456,458.Like this, first pair of bigger cylindrical bearing 470 rotatably links to each other with the first track axle 466, and second pair of less relatively cylindrical bearing 472 rotatably links to each other with the second track axle 468.The rolling surface of first pair and second pair cylindrical bearing has separated one section distance that is slightly larger than in preceding track 416 respective thickness.As having substituting of smooth rolling surface, the rolling surface of cylindrical bearing 452 defines the center wedge-shape notch 474 that generally is positioned at each bearing element face separately.

The wedge-shape notch 474 of bearing 452 is suitable for engaging with the wedge projection that lifts accordingly 476 that extends along top and base track face 478,480 at preceding track 416.Shown in Figure 25 A-25C, comprise the first side part 482 and the second side part 484 of separating at preceding track 416 by centre portion 486, they are combined and define upper and lower orbital plane 478,480.Centre portion 486 comprises forward and backward track connecting bore 488,490, and it is suitable for accepting being used for the bolt that is connected together at preceding track 416 and preceding track support 420,422 and back track support 424,426.As previously described, get on the right track face 478 and lower railway face 480 defines along in the length of preceding track and the wedge projection that lifts 476 that extends.When at preceding track connecting rod 360 with when preceding track 416 links, the rolling surface of first pair of cylindrical bearing 470 engages with the face of getting on the right track 478, and the rolling surface of second pair of cylindrical bearing 472 engages with lower railway face 480.

With reference to first embodiment, along with rear suspension system 354 moves in response to the displacement of rear wheel 106, the cylindrical bearing 452 of the first pivot translation assembly 360 is along rolling back and forth at preceding track 416 as mentioned above.Although cylindrical bearing is along freely rolling back and forth at preceding track, the power that is applied on the rear suspension system just can act on first on preceding track connecting rod 360 on the direction up or down.To should be in the downward force that puts on preceding track connecting rod, first pair of cylindrical bearing 470 will engage with the face of getting on the right track 478.In response to the upward force that puts on preceding track connecting rod, second pair of cylindrical bearing 472 will engage with lower railway face 480.After this manner, just can prevent that antifriction-bearing box 452 breaks away from preceding track 416.In addition, if be subjected to respect in the transverse force of preceding track to the right or the left side at preceding track connecting rod 360, cylindrical bearing 452 will engage with the corresponding wedge-shaped part 476 on the upper and lower orbital plane 478,480 so, and this will be used to forbid that cylindrical bearing breaks away from preceding track 416.

As previously described, the second pivot translation assembly 362 is with the right side and a left side following the linking to forward extension 406 and back track 418 of part forwardly of Vee formation shape.Following described in more detail, the second pivot translation assembly 362 of second rear suspension system 354 has utilized bearing and track construction, and it is different from reference to aforesaid slider connecting rod of first embodiment and rail configurations.Shown in Figure 19 and 26, the second pivot translation assembly comprises back track connecting rod 492, and it is rotatably supporting four and is being suitable for the cylindrical bearing 494 that rolls back and forth along back track 418.Back track connecting rod 492 and back track 418 have with about at preceding track connecting rod 450 with at preceding track 416 similar as mentioned above bearing and orbital plane structure.Yet, comprise that the back track connecting rod of back track link body 496 is configured to be different from the first track link body 454.

Shown in Figure 26-27D, back track link body 496 comprises the first substantially parallel side and second side 498,500, and it opened and be attached thereto by first and second web structure in 502,504 minutes.Be similar at preceding track connecting rod 450, back track connecting rod 492 comprises the first track axle 506 that rotatably supports first pair of big cylindrical bearing 508, and the second track axle 510 that rotatably supports second pair of less relatively cylindrical bearing 512.The following second pivotal joint joint 414 between the first track axle 506 on forward extension 406 and the back track connecting rod 492 of part 392,394 forwardly on the right side of Vee formation shape 380,382 and a left side just defines second pivot 368.Like this, following the linking pivotally by back track connecting rod 492 and back track 418 of the part forwardly 392,394 of Vee formation shape 380,382 to forward extension 406.

Shown in Figure 27 A-27C, cylindrical bearing 494 and back track 418 are configured to have about cylindrical bearing 452 with at preceding track 416 aforesaid wedge-shape notch 474 and protrusions 476.Because back track 418 is perpendicular orientations, so back track 418 defines in preceding orbital plane 514 and back orbital plane 516.Like this, first pair of cylindrical bearing 508 of back track connecting rod 492 just is bonded on preceding orbital plane 514 with rolling, and second pair of cylindrical bearing 512 is bonded on the orbital plane 516 of back.Shown in Figure 21-22 and 26, back protector 518 links to each other with top rail support 428,430 and base track support 432,434.Like this, back protector 518 extends along the length of back orbital plane 516, contacts unintentionally with second pair of cylindrical bearing 512 preventing.

As previously described, the dampening assembly 364 of rear suspension system 354 shown in Figure 19 is similar to the aforesaid dampening assembly 120 referring to Figure 13 A-13B.Like this, dampening assembly 364 comprise many with referring to the identical as mentioned above component parts of Figure 13 A-13B.Although not shown in Figure 19, be appreciated that dampening assembly 364 also can comprise compression spring.As shown in figure 22, the eyelet 520 that is positioned on the body cover is connected between right and the left back track support 424,426.Like this, dampening assembly can be with respect to front baffle 356 pivoted.Shown in Figure 22 and 26, the eyelet 524 that is positioned on the base section of the axis of the piston 526 of dampening assembly is suitable for accepting axle 528, and described axle 528 extends through first side of back track link body 496 and the hole 530 in second side 498,500.Like this, axle 528 is connected together dampening assembly 364 and back track connecting rod 492 pivotally.Like this, when back track connecting rod 492 when back track 418 moves up and down, the axis of the piston 526 of dampening assembly is just promoted up and down.

At first embodiment as mentioned above, be appreciated that dampening assembly 364 shown in Figure 19 needn't with as mentioned above with shown in mode be connected.Like this, although dampening assembly can be configured for connecting front baffle and rear frame,, dampening assembly needn't directly connect front baffle and rear frame.For example, in other embodiments of the invention, dampening assembly 364 can link to each other with the first pivot translation assembly 360 with front baffle 356, or links to each other with the second pivot translation assembly 362 with front baffle.

As previously described, according to the first and second pivot translation assemblies 360,362 of second embodiment 354 of rear suspension system to operate at the similar as mentioned above mode of first embodiment and/or to move.In addition, second embodiment of rear suspension system also can provide adjustable wheel path and/or lever ratio.Like this, as mentioned above, the travel path of first pivot 366 and rear wheel path can be by changing shape and/or directed adjusting the at preceding track 416.For example, can unclamp Bolt Connection from front baffle 356, and replace and to have difformity and/or directed at preceding track at preceding track 416, for example shown in Figure 28 preceding track 416 '.In addition, also can with pinholes 440 different shown in 24 preceding track support 420,422 and downward pipe 374 be connected together, be adjusted in preceding orientation of orbit by passing Figure 22.More particularly, be positioned at before pinhole 440 in the track support can be corresponding to different at preceding orientation of orbit.For example, in one embodiment, base apertures 532 shown in Figure 24, interstitial hole 534 and top pinhole 536 correspond respectively to 5 the degree, 10 the degree and 15 the degree in preceding track angle (as above limiting) referring to Fig. 8.As first embodiment, rear suspension system also can comprise the track with variable track angle.Be similar at preceding track 416, back track 418 can also be replaced with the back track with difformity and/or orientation.Be further appreciated that forward and backward trade shape and/or orientation can make amendment, and need not to remove and replace.For example, being connected the screw rod or the setting of worm gear type between the track of front baffle and preceding track and/or back can be used for handling track and enters various orientation with respect to front baffle.

Figure 29 A-30C has shown bicycle 538, and it comprises the 3rd embodiment 540 of the rear suspension system of some according to the present invention.Bicycle 538 comprises the aforesaid component parts referring to Fig. 1, and for example front vehicle wheel 104, rear wheel 106, and steering swivel system 108, seat 110, pedal 144, and by the joining each other preceding and rear sprocket assembly 146,150 of chain 148.Be similar to aforesaid embodiment, bicycle 538 shown in Figure 29 A-30A comprises the front baffle 544 joining rear frames 542 by the first pivot translation assembly 546 and the second pivot translation assembly 548 and bicycle 538.Rear suspension system also comprises dampening assembly 550 shown in Figure 29 A-30A.Although the 3rd rear suspension system 540 is working with the mode similar as mentioned above with respect to other embodiment,, the 3rd embodiment is can some kinds of modes structurally different with other embodiment.Particularly, the first and second pivot translation assemblies of the 3rd embodiment structurally are different from the first and second pivot translation assemblies of above-mentioned first and second embodiment.For example, the first pivot translation assembly 546 of the 3rd embodiment comprises slider connecting rod and rail configurations, and it is different from aforesaid bearing and track construction.In addition, the second pivot translation assembly 548 of the 3rd embodiment comprises and slider connecting rod and the rail configurations different as mentioned above with respect to first embodiment.

Front baffle 544 shown in Figure 29 A-30A, 31A and 32C is similar to aforesaid front baffle.Like this, front baffle comprises head pipe 552, and head tube 554 manages 556 downwards, bottom bracket 558 and seat tubes 560.Head tube 554 is managed 552 from the head and is extended back, so that link to each other with seat tubes 560, and manages 556 downwards and manages 552 from the head and backward and down extend, so that link to each other with bottom bracket 558.Shown in Figure 31 and 32C, extend downwards from head tube 554 on the hollow tubular top 562 of seat tubes 560, and transit to the solid lower part 564 that is connected with bottom bracket 558.The seat or the saddle 110 that are used to support bicycle rider can link to each other with the top of seat tubes 560 as about other embodiment as mentioned above.

Be similar to aforesaid embodiment, the rear frame 542 shown in Figure 31 A, 32A and the 32B also comprises right back triangle and left back triangle 568,570.Like this, right and left top component 572,574, bottom part 576,578 and forwardly part 580,582 link together, to form corresponding right back triangle and left back triangle.Shown in Figure 31 A, 32A and 32B, the rear end part of the rear end part of each top component 572,574 and each bottom part 576,578 links to each other.In addition, the rear end part of top and bottom part and triangular shaped back attachment 584,586 link to each other.Right and left back attachment respectively comprise trailing wheel axis hole 588, and it is suitable for accepting and rotatably supports the hind axle 138 of rear wheel 106.Shown in Figure 31 A, 32A and 32B, a right and left side forwardly part 580,582 respectively comprises link to each other with base portion part 592 top to forward extension 590.The fore-end of top component 572,574 is superincumbent, and part 580,582 is continuous near the intersection of forward extension 590 and base portion part 592 with forwardly.The fore-end of bottom part 576,578 links to each other with the base portion part 592 of part 580,582 forwardly.Following described in more detail, a right and left side forwardly the top of part 580,582 respectively comprises first pivot hole 594 to forward extension 590, and it is suitable for and first pivotal axis 596 that defines first pivot 598 links.In addition, the right side and a left side forwardly the base portion part 592 of part 580,582 respectively comprise second pivot hole 600, and it is suitable for linking with the second trunnion bearing support component 602 that defines second pivot 604, and is following described in more detail.Be appreciated that rear frame can be configured to by various types of materials, aluminium for example, carbon, and titanium.The parts that are used for tectonic framework also can limit hollow tubular structure, maybe can be to have solid structure.

As the foregoing description, the rear frame 542 of rear suspension system 540 links with front baffle 544 by the first and second pivot translation assemblies 546,548.Shown in Figure 30 B-30C and 31A-31B, the first pivot translation assembly 546 comprise be suitable for along range of movement guide first pivot 598 at former rail 606, and the second pivot translation assembly 548 comprises the rear rail 608 that is suitable for guiding along range of movement second pivot 604.Like this, be appreciated that front baffle 544 can comprise various structural constituent, be used to support the various members of the first and second pivot translation assemblies.

Shown in Figure 30 B-30C and 31A-31B, support by right and left front rail brackets 610,612 and right and left back rail brackets 614,616 at former rail 606.Shown in Figure 30 B, rear rail support 614,616 links to each other with the cross-shaped portion of seat tubes 560 with head tube 554, and extends downwards and forward from the cross-shaped portion of seat tubes 560 and head tube 554.Following described in more detail, dampening assembly 550 is connected between the rear rail support pivotally.Shown in Figure 30 B-30C, right and left front rail brackets 610,612 links to each other with the left side with the right side of downward pipe 556.Fore-end 618 at former rail 606 links to each other with right and left front track support 610,612, and links to each other with right and left back track support 614,616 at the rear end part 620 of former rail 606.

As previously described, the first pivot translation assembly 546 and the second pivot translation assembly 548 link rear frame 542 and front baffle 544.More particularly, the first pivot translation assembly 546 is with Vee formation shape 568,570 the right side and a left side be part 580 forwardly, 582 top to forward extension 590 with link up at former rail 606, and the second pivot translation assembly 546 with the right side of Vee formation shape and a left side forwardly the base portion part 592 of part link with rear rail 608.

Shown in Figure 29 A-30A and 31A, the right side of Vee formation shape 568,570 and a left side forwardly part 580,582 top to forward extension 590 by front slide device connecting rod 622 with link at former rail 606.More particularly, Vee formation shape be suitable for along linking to each other pivotally of moving back and forth at former rail 606 at front slide device connecting rod 622.Shown in Figure 33 A-33C, comprise the top side and the bottom side 624,626 of substantially flat at former rail 606, it links to each other with right side and left side 628,630 and separates by right side and left side 628,630.Right side 628 comprises right bearing groove 632, and left side 630 comprises left bearing groove 634.As described below, bearing groove 632,634 is suitable for being received in rolling the bearing 635 in the front slide device connecting rod.Link to each other with guide supporting parts 636 at former rail, guide supporting parts 636 link to each other with former rail support 610,612 and rear rail support 614,616 again.Shown in Figure 33 B and 33C, comprise main body 638 at front slide device connecting rod 622, it has long and narrower top side 640, bottom side 642, right side 644, and the left side 646 that defines the elongate pieces shape.Groove 648 in the bottom side 642 of front slide device link body 638 650 extends to rear side 652 from the front side, and is suitable for being received in the part of former rail 606.

As previously described, front slide device connecting rod 622 by the bearing 635 in the groove 648 that is supported in main body 638 with link with rolling at former rail 606.Like this, can comprise sealing member and/or wiper, so that help prevent the bearing 635 in dust and the foul arrival main body 638 at front slide device connecting rod.Shown in Figure 33 B and 33C, preceding poted assemblies 654 links to each other with front side 650 in front slide device link body 638, and back poted assemblies 656 links to each other with rear side 652 in front slide device link body.Be appreciated that various types of poted assemblives are used on the front slide device connecting rod 622, so that various degree of protection to bearing is provided.For example, in one embodiment, poted assemblies comprises the metal scraping that is used for removing from guide rail big particle, and the lamination type that is used to remove fine dust and fluid contacts scraping.Other embodiment comprises the lubricator that is used for lubricating bearings and guide rail.Be further appreciated that guide rail and slider connecting rod can be made by various types of materials.For example, in one embodiment, guide rail is made by carbon steel, and has the chromium and the fluorine resin coating of black.In another embodiment, the slider link body is made by carbon steel, and comprises the chrome coating of black.Like this, the various various combinations of slider connecting rod and guide rail can be used for rear suspension system, and be not limited to described herein and shown in type.For example, rear suspension system embodiment has utilized by THK America company and has made and model is guide rail and the slider connecting rod of SHS 15V1 QZKKHHC1FM+220LF.

As previously described, along with rear suspension system 540 moves in response to the displacement of rear wheel 106, can move back and forth along partial-length at former rail 606 at front slide device connecting rod 622.How the relatively demonstration of Figure 29 A-29B and Figure 30 A-30C can move along the length at former rail at front slide device connecting rod.More particularly, Figure 29 A-29B has shown and has been in relatively the not rear suspension system 540 of compression stage, and Figure 30 A-30C has shown the rear suspension system that is in relative compression stage.Like this, be depicted as the rear end part that is positioned adjacent at former rail 606 as Figure 29 A-29B, and Figure 30 A-30C has shown at front slide device connecting rod near the fore-end at former rail at front slide device connecting rod 622.Along with at front slide device connecting rod 622 along moving back and forth at former rail 606, the ball bearing of main shaft 635 in the slider link body 638 rolls back and forth along the groove 632,634 in the side 628,630 of former rail 606.Be appreciated that various types of bearings can be used for front slide device connecting rod 622 with connect with rolling at former rail 606.For example, an embodiment comprises by being similar to the ball bearing of main shaft that 440 stainless martensitic stain less steels are made.

Although the bearing in front slide device connecting rod 622 is along right side and left side 628 at former rail, 630 freely roll back and forth, but, the power on the rear suspension system 540 of acting on can cause along upwards, downward direction and horizontal direction and act on power on front slide device connecting rod 622.If be subjected to respect at former rail 606 on the right or the transverse force on the left side at front slide device connecting rod 622, so, bearing will engage with corresponding right side and the left side 628,630 at former rail 606, and this will be used to forbid at front slide device connecting rod getaway.In addition, in response to the power up and down that puts on front slide device connecting rod 622, bearing will close with the upper and lower side edge of groove 632,634 on the side 628,630 of former rail 606.After this manner, just can prevent to break away from former rail at front slide device connecting rod.As described below, bicycle 538 also can comprise the reinforcement 658 that links to each other with rear frame 546 with front baffle 544, and reinforcement 658 is suitable for absorbing moment load, otherwise described moment load will put on front slide device connecting rod and the bearing that is associated.

As previously described, link to each other pivotally by first pivotal axis 596 and right back triangle and left back triangle 568,570 at front slide device connecting rod 622.Following described in more detail referring to Figure 33 B-33E, right back triangle and left back triangle 568,570 divide with the eccentric end of first pivotal axis 596 and link to each other.Like this, but the rotation lifting of first pivotal axis and eccentric end part or reduce right and left side part 580,582 top forwardly to forward extension 590, this lifting or reduced bottom bracket 558 again with respect to ground-surface height.In addition, the rotation of first pivotal axis and eccentric end part can influence head pipe 552 with respect to ground-surface gradient.Therefore, according to the preference of bicycle rider, first pivotal axis 596 can be rotated, so that produce the different frame geometry of bicycle and different performancees.For example, the bicycle rider of leisure may be preferred higher relatively bottom bracket height, is used to ride rough topography, contacts so that help avoid with rock etc.In another example, the bicycle rider of specialty may be preferred relatively low bottom bracket height, and this provides lower center of gravity, and this allows to come with higher speed curved excessively better again.

Shown in Figure 33 B-33E, first pivotal axis 596 comprises right and left dish type end parts 660,662, and its opposite end with the core 664 of cylinder form links to each other prejudicially.More particularly, the center of dish type end parts 660,662 is aligned with each other, but departs from the longitudinal axis of the core 664 of first pivotal axis 596.Shown in Figure 33 B and 33C, be suitable for right back triangle and left back triangle 568,570 in first pivot hole 594 right side and left pivot 666,668 bearings that link to each other, the end bolt 670 that is linked to each other by the right side and left end portion 660,662 with first pivotal axis rotatably supports.Like this, right back triangle and left back triangle 568,570 can be with respect to first pivotal axis, 596 pivoted.

Shown in Figure 33 B-33E, first pivotal axis 596 rotatably links to each other with top side 640 in front slide device link body 638 by axle bearing 672.Axle bearing 672 comprises top section 674 and base section 676.Base section 676 comprises low groove 678, and bolt together is on the top side 640 of slider link body 638, and wherein low groove 678 is towards last.The top section 674 of axle bearing 672 comprises upper groove 680, and bolt together is on base section 676, and wherein upper groove 680 faces down.When the top of careful shaft stool 672 and base section 674,676 linked to each other, upper groove 680 and low groove 678 had formed the hole of cylinder form, and it is suitable for rotatably accepting and supporting the core 664 of first pivotal axis 596.

As previously described, can rotate first pivotal axis 596, so that regulate bottom bracket 558 with respect to ground-surface height.Because the end parts 660,662 of first pivotal axis 596 links to each other prejudicially with the opposite end of core 664, so along with the rotation of first pivotal axis, end parts will be along the path movement of arc.Like this, first pivot hole 594 in right back triangle and the left back triangle 568,570 moves together with the end parts of first pivotal axis 596, this lifting or reduce bottom bracket with respect to ground-surface height again.Be appreciated that first pivotal axis 596 can various mode be configured for the bottom bracket height adjustment range that provides different.For example, there is not bicycle rider to be sitting among the embodiment on the bicycle therein, first position of rotation of first pivotal axis provides 15 inches maximum bottom bracket height, and second position of rotation of first pivotal axis provides 13.75 inches minimum bottom support height.Other embodiment that is further appreciated that the first pivot translation assembly does not provide the bottom bracket height adjustment, and like this, first pivotal axis needn't comprise bonded assembly end parts prejudicially.

As previously described, the second pivot translation assembly with the right side of Vee formation shape 568,570 and a left side forwardly the base portion part 592 of part 580,582 link with rear rail 608.Shown in Figure 34 A and 34B, forwardly the base portion part 592 of part 580,582 links with rear rail 608 by back slider connecting rod 682.Shown in Figure 34 A and 34B, be contained in part 580 forwardly, bearing 681 in second pivot hole 600 on 582 the base portion part links up Vee formation shape and back trunnion bearing support component 602 pivotally, back trunnion bearing support component 602 again bolt together on back slider connecting rod 682.Like this, Vee formation shape 568,570 links to each other pivotally with back slider connecting rod 682, and back slider connecting rod 682 is suitable for moving back and forth along rear rail 608.Shown in Figure 30 B and 34A-34B, rear rail 608 bolt togethers are on the lower part 564 of seat tubes 560.Rear rail 608 is similar at former rail 606, so just comprises the front side and the rear side 684,686 of the substantially flat that links to each other with right side and left side 688,690 and separate by right side and left side 688,690.Right side 688 comprises right bearing groove 692, and left side 690 comprises left bearing groove 694.As described below, the bearing after bearing groove 692,694 is suitable for accepting with rolling in the slider connecting rod.Shown in Figure 34 A and 34B, back slider connecting rod 622 comprises main body 698, and it has relatively long and narrower front side 700, rear side 702, right side 704 and define the left side 706 of elongate pieces shape.Groove 708 in the rear side 702 of back slider link body 698 710 extends to bottom side 712 from the bottom side, and is suitable for accepting the part of rear rail 608.

Back slider connecting rod 682 and rear rail 608 have with about at front slide device connecting rod 622 with at the similar as mentioned above bearing construction of former rail 606.Like this, back slider connecting rod 682 links with rear rail 608 with rolling by the bearing in the groove 708 that is supported on main body 698.About at front slide device connecting rod as mentioned above, back slider connecting rod can comprise sealing member and/or wiper, so that help prevent dust and foul to arrive main body 698 in-to-in bearings.Shown in Figure 34 A and 34B, top seal assembly 714 links to each other with the bottom side 710 of back slider link body 698, and bottom poted assemblies 716 links to each other with the bottom side 712 of back slider link body.About as mentioned above, be appreciated that various types of poted assemblives can be used for back slider connecting rod, so that the different degree of protections to bearing are provided at front slide device connecting rod.Equally, as about and as mentioned above, be appreciated that guide rail and slider connecting rod can be made by various types of materials at former rail at front slide device connecting rod.

As previously described, along with rear suspension system 540 moves in response to the displacement of rear wheel 106, back slider connecting rod 682 can move back and forth along the partial-length of rear rail 608.How the back slider connecting rod that relatively shown of Figure 29 A-29B and Figure 30 A-30C can move along rear rail length.Figure 29 A-29B has shown that rear suspension system 540 is in relatively not compression stage, and Figure 30 A-30C has shown that rear suspension system is in relative compression stage.Like this, back slider connecting rod 682 is positioned adjacent to the bottom part of rear rail 608 shown in Figure 29 A-29B, and Figure 30 A-30C has shown the top end part of back slider connecting rod near rear rail.Along with back slider connecting rod 682 moves back and forth along rear rail 608, the ball bearing of main shaft in the slider link body 698 in the side 688,690 of rear rail 608 groove 692,694 and roll back and forth.About as mentioned above, be appreciated that various types of bearings can be used for connecting with rolling back slider connecting rod 682 and rear rail 608 at front slide device connecting rod.

Although the bearing in the back slider connecting rod 682 is along the side 688 of rear rail 608,690 freely roll back and forth, but the power on the rear suspension system of acting on can cause being created in forward, backward directions and act on power on the back slider connecting rod 682 in a lateral direction.If back slider connecting rod 682 is subjected to respect to rear rail 608 on the right or the transverse force on the left side, bearing will engage with the corresponding right side and the left side 688,690 of rear rail so, and this will be used to forbid that back slider connecting rod 682 breaks away from rear rails 608.In addition, in response to the forward and backward power that puts on the back slider connecting rod 682, bearing will close with the forward and backward side edge of groove 692,693 on the side 688,690 of rear rail 608.After this manner, just can prevent that back slider connecting rod 682 breaks away from rear rail 608.As previously described and as described below, be suitable for absorbing the moment load with the reinforcement 658 that front baffle 544 links to each other with rear frame 542, otherwise described moment load will put on back slider connecting rod and the bearing that is associated on.

About other embodiment as mentioned above, rear suspension system 540 also comprise with referring to the similar as mentioned above dampening assembly 550 of Figure 13 A-13B.Like this, dampening assembly 364 comprise many with referring to the identical as mentioned above component parts of Figure 13 A-13B.Shown in Figure 30 B, the eyelet 718 that is positioned on the body cover 720 is connected between right and the left back rail brackets 614,616.Like this, dampening assembly links to each other pivotally with rail brackets, and so and can be with respect to front baffle 544 pivoted.Shown in Figure 31 A-30B and 31B, the base portion part 592 that is positioned at eyelet 722 and the part forwardly 580,582 of Vee formation shape 568,570 on the axis of the piston 724 of dampening assembly 550 links to each other pivotally.More particularly, eyelet 772 is suitable for accepting being used for bolt that dampening assembly 550 and connecting panel 726 are connected together, connecting panel 726 again near bolt together second pivot 604 on the base portion part 592 of the part forwardly 580,582 of Vee formation shape 568,570.Like this, when back slider connecting rod 682 and second pivot 604 moved up and down, the axis of the piston 724 was upwards pushed away and is pushed away downwards.Shown in Figure 29 A and 29B, dampening assembly also can comprise compression spring 727.For the sake of clarity, compression spring is not shown at some.

With respect to other embodiment as previously described, be appreciated that dampening assembly 550 needn't with as mentioned above and shown in mode couple together.Like this, although dampening assembly 550 can be configured for connecting front baffle 544 and rear frame 542,, dampening assembly needn't directly connect front baffle and rear frame.For example, in other embodiments of the invention, dampening assembly can link to each other with the first pivot translation assembly 546 with front baffle, or links to each other with the second pivot translation assembly 548 with front baffle.

In the use of bicycle, before putting on the front baffle 544 of bicycle 538 and the power on the rear frame 542 and can causing and rear frame reverse relative to one another, thereby the connection structure between former frame frame and the rear frame (for example first and second pivot translation assemblies 546,548) goes up and produces the moment load.As previously described, bicycle 538 can comprise the reinforcement assembly 658 that is suitable for absorbing the moment load, and described moment is loaded otherwise will be put on forward and backward slider connecting rod 622,682, guide rail 606,608 and the member that is associated.Following described in more detail, reinforcement assembly 658 connects front baffle and rear frame pivotally, and can not limit the relative motion of the various members of the first and second pivot translation assemblies.

Shown in Figure 31 A and 31B, reinforcement assembly 658 comprises the back pivot link 728 of U-shaped, and it has the right side and the left extendible portion 730,732 that links to each other with base portion part 734 and separate by base portion part 734.Right and left extendible portion 730,732 is continuous pivotally with the right side and the left top component 572,574 of Vee formation shape 568,570 respectively.Pivotal joint between back pivot link 728 and the Vee formation shape 568,570 defines back reinforcement pivot 736.Reinforcement assembly 658 also is included in preceding pivot link 738, and it has the first end section 740 that links to each other pivotally with front baffle 544 near the rear side of seat tubes 560.Pivotal joint between preceding pivot link 738 and front baffle 544 defines at preceding reinforcement pivot 742.Second end section 744 at preceding pivot link 738 links to each other pivotally with the base portion part 734 of back pivot link 728, connects pivot 746 thereby define.Allow in the horizontal direction and the relative motion between former frame frame and the rear frame on the vertical direction at the pivotal joint between preceding pivot link 738, back pivot link 728, front baffle 544 and the rear frame 542.Yet the pivotal joint between preceding pivot link, back pivot link, front baffle and rear frame helps prevent to the frame of former frame in a lateral direction on the right or the left side and the relative motion between the rear frame.More particularly, the power on front baffle 544 and the rear frame 542 of putting in a lateral direction is reinforced part assembly 658 and absorbs (otherwise described power can cause framework to reverse relative to one another), this and the first and second pivot translation assemblies, 546,548 differences.

As previously described, rear suspension system 540, particularly, the first and second pivot translation assemblies 546,548 are to operate with the mode similar as mentioned above with respect to other embodiment or to move.Therefore, rear suspension system 540 also can be configured for providing adjustable wheel path and/or lever ratio.For example, with reference to first embodiment as mentioned above, the travel path of first pivot 598 and/or second pivot 604 and the travel path of rear wheel 106 can be regulated by the shape and/or the orientation that change forward and backward guide rail 606,608.Be further appreciated that forward and backward guide rail shape and/or orientation can make amendment, and need not to remove and replace.For example, be connected framework and forward and/or the setting of screw rod between the rear rail or worm gear type can be used for handling guide rail and enter in the various orientation with respect to framework.

The scheme drawing of bicycle 748 that comprises rear suspension system the 4th embodiment 750 is shown in Figure 35 A-35C.Be similar to the foregoing description, rear suspension system 750 shown in Figure 35 A-35C links the front baffle 754 of rear frame 752 with bicycle 748 by the first pivot translation assembly 756 and the second pivot translation assembly 758.Rear suspension system 750 also comprises dampening assembly 760, and it can be configured for connecting front baffle 754 and rear frame 752.As other embodiment, be appreciated that dampening assembly needn't directly connect front baffle and rear frame, and can link to each other with the first pivot translation assembly or the second pivot translation assembly with front baffle.Rear frame 752 also by with link pivotally with front baffle 754 at second pivot 762 with reference to the similar as mentioned above slider connecting rod of first embodiment and rail configurations.Yet the 4th embodiment structurally is different from the foregoing description in some kinds of modes.For example, the first pivot translation assembly 756 of the 4th embodiment of rear suspension system 750 structurally is different from the aforesaid first pivot translation assembly.Particularly, be that rear frame 752 links with front baffle at first pivot 764 by fork by at the first pivot place rear frame and front baffle linked different at preceding track.Following described in more detail, rear frame also is configured to be different from the foregoing description.

Shown in Figure 35 A-35C, front baffle 754 is configured to be similar to the aforesaid front baffle with reference to first embodiment.Like this, front baffle comprises and similar as mentioned above component parts that for example the head pipe 766, and seat tubes 768 manages 770 downwards, head tube 772 and bottom bracket 774.Shown in Figure 35 A-35C, rear frame 752 comprises right and left master pendulum arm 776.Although Figure 35 A-35C has only shown the right side member of rear suspension system, be appreciated that left-side member is the mirror image of right side member basically, and move in the same way.Like this, to the description of right side member also applicable to left-side member.

Shown in Figure 35 A-35C, the fore-end of master pendulum arm 776 links with front baffle 754 pivotally by the first pivot translation assembly 756.The first pivot translation assembly 756 comprises right and left fork 778.The fore-end of master pendulum arm 776 links to each other pivotally with fork 778, and fork 778 links to each other pivotally with downward pipe 770 again.In addition, the centre portion of master pendulum arm 776 links with front baffle pivotally by the second pivot translation assembly 758.As previously described, the second pivot translation assembly 758 is similar to the aforesaid second pivot translation assembly with reference to first embodiment, and comprise therefore and right and left rail 782 joining slider connecting rods 780 that the described right side links to each other with front baffle 754 with left rail 782.

As previously described and shown in Figure 35 A-35C, the end portion of fork 778 is connected on the opposite side of downward pipe 770 pivotally near bottom bracket 774.Be appreciated that fork 778 can link to each other with downward pipe 770 pivotally in various mode.For example, in one embodiment, fork is by passing the connecting rod axle that downward pipe inserts, and links to each other pivotally with downward pipe.In this structure, the coupling end of connecting rod axle is outstanding from the relative both sides of downward pipe.Connecting bore in the fork is rotatably accepted the coupling end of connecting rod axle.In another example, the connecting rod pin that the teat utilization is therefrom outstanding and being welded on the relative both sides of downward pipe is used for engaging with connecting bore on the fork.Comprise right and left fork although be further appreciated that above structure,, other embodiment can comprise single fork.Also can further understand, fork can link to each other pivotally with the front chassis component except downward pipe.For example, in other embodiments, fork can link to each other pivotally with head pipe or head tube.

Still referring to Figure 35 A-35C, the top of fork 778 links to each other pivotally with the fore-end of master pendulum arm 776 separately, and this just defines first pivot 764.Master pendulum arm 776 extends to slider connecting rod 780 backward and down from first pivot 764.Slider connecting rod 780 rotatably links to each other with the centre portion of master pendulum arm 776 by second pivotal axis 784, and this just defines second pivot 762.Be similar to first embodiment, slider connecting rod 780 is suitable for moving up and down along guide rail 782.From second pivot 784, master pendulum arm extends to the rear end part with trailing wheel axis hole backward and down, and described trailing wheel axis hole supports the hind axle 138 of rear wheel 106.Like this, rear wheel 106 rotatably is connected between the rear end part of master pendulum arm.As previously described, with reference to first embodiment as mentioned above, the dampening assembly 760 of the 4th embodiment of rear suspension system links to each other with slider connecting rod 780 pivotally with front baffle 754.Although the rear frame shown in Figure 35 A-35C comprises right and left master pendulum arm, be appreciated that other embodiment can comprise single master pendulum arm.Be further appreciated that master pendulum arm can be configured to by various types of materials, for example aluminium, carbon and titanium.The parts that are used to construct master pendulum arm also can limit hollow tubular structure, maybe can have solid structure.

As previously mentioned, when bicycle rider ran into rough topography or bicycle 748 and takeoffs, impulsive force can be along usually upward to acting on the rear wheel 106.Impulsive force is passed to master pendulum arm 776 by hind axle 138 again.Described impulsive force causes master pendulum arm 776 to produce displacement on the direction of the geometric parameter of rear suspension system 750 and structure defined.The position that may can comprise first and second pivots 764,762 to the influential geometric parameter of the displacement path of master pendulum arm and rear wheel; The length of fork 778; The shape of master pendulum arm 776 and/or length; And the shape of guide rail 782, length and/or orientation.

Figure 35 A-35C has shown the rear suspension system 750 that is in different compression stages.More particularly, Figure 35 has shown and has been in the first not rear wheel 106 and the rear suspension system 750 of compression stage.As shown in the figure, first pivot 764 is in primary importance, and wherein fork 778 is near 10 o ' clock positions (looking from the right side of bicycle), and second pivot 762 is in the primary importance near guide rail 782 bottoms.In addition, dampening assembly 760 is in first compression stage as shown in the figure.For example when bicycle rider is sitting on the bicycle, putting on the upward force of rear wheel 106 or put on the downward force at seat 110 can be with in the second portion compression stage of rear suspension system location shown in Figure 35 B.

The relatively demonstration of Figure 35 A and Figure 35 B, along with the initial position clickwise (from the right side of bicycle look) of fork 778 from Figure 35 A, first pivot 764 makes progress and moves forward.Simultaneously, slider connecting rod 780 and slider axle 784 (second pivot 762) have been moved upward in the bottom of guide rail and the second place between the top along the length of guide rail 782.The upward movement of slider connecting rod 780 also forces the axis of the piston 786 of dampening assembly 760 to make progress, so that dampening assembly is positioned at second compression stage.In addition, along with rear suspension system 750 from first not compression stage move to not compression stage of second portion ground, the master pendulum arm of rear frame 752 776 around second pivot 762 along clockwise direction (looking) and pivoted from the right side of bicycle.

When for example after bicycle rider and bicycle are being skipped obstacle, landing, be applied to the bigger upward force on the rear wheel 106 or be applied to bigger downward force on the seat 110, rear suspension system 750 can be positioned at shown in Figure 35 C the depth of the night full compression stage.The relatively demonstration of Figure 35 B and Figure 35 C, along with the position of fork 778 from Figure 35 B begins clickwise (looking from the right side of bicycle), first pivot 764 further makes progress and moves forward.Simultaneously, slider connecting rod 780 and slider axle 784 (second pivot 762) further have been moved upward to the 3rd position on close guide rail top along the length of guide rail 782.The extra upward movement of slider connecting rod 780 also forces the axis of the piston 786 of dampening assembly 760 further to make progress, so that dampening assembly is positioned in the 3rd compression stage.In addition, along with rear suspension system 750 from second portion ground not compression stage moved to for the 3rd full compression stage, the master pendulum arm of rear frame 752 776 is further pivoted around second pivot 762 along clockwise direction (looking from the right side of bicycle).

About other embodiment as mentioned above, dampening assembly 760 is used to resist the displacement of rear wheel 106 and is used to make rear wheel to get back to its displacement position before.Therefore, dampening assembly for example can be used for making the back to hang 750 getting back to second portion compression stage shown in Figure 35 B from the 3rd full compression stage shown in Figure 35 C.

How the above first and second pivot translation assemblies 756,758 that more also shown of Figure 35 A-35C connect rear frame 752 and front baffle 754 by the pivotal joint joint, and described pivotal joint joint is also along corresponding travel path translation.More particularly, first pivot 764 conforms to by fork 778 with respect to the arc that pivoting action limited of downward pipe 770 and move.In addition, compression position to the motion of full compression position never causes rear wheel wheel shaft 138 in vertical direction and in the horizontal direction to top offset.With reference to first embodiment as mentioned above, the horizontal displacement amplitude of rear wheel wheel shaft 138 can be far smaller than upwards vertical displacement.Like this, rear suspension system 750 can alleviate by bicycle rider and is applied to power on the pedal, described power otherwise will be used to compress rear suspension system.

With reference to first embodiment as mentioned above, some embodiment of guide rail 782 shown in Figure 35 A-35C also are configured for allowing the user to regulate guide rail orientation and/or shape.As mentioned above, along with rear suspension system moves with respect to bicycle frame, regulate travel path and lever ratio that the guide rail angle can influence rear wheel.How figure shown in Figure 36 A-36D has shown and can be used for guide rail orientation according to the specific rear suspension system structure of the 4th embodiment by change, come the shadow to rear wheel path, chain-stay length (CSL) and lever ratio.More particularly, Figure 36 A-36D respectively comprises three groups of data corresponding to three different guide rail angles (promptly 0 degree, 10 degree and 20 are spent forward with respect to vertical reference line shown in Figure 9).In other words, three groups of data on each figure are corresponding to the first vertical guide rail position and two extra guide rail positions, and the upper part of its middle guide is spent from vertical reference line 10 degree and 20 that turn forward.

Figure 36 A illustrates along with rear suspension system 750 moved to for the second higher compression stage from the first low compression stage, corresponding to three different rear wheels paths of three different above-mentioned guide rail angles.Y-axis line 788 representatives shown in Figure 36 A are the rear wheel level attitude of unit with the millimeter, and 790 representatives of X-axis line are the rear wheel upright position of unit with the millimeter.Shown in Figure 30 A, whole three guide rail angles provide the rear wheel path of analogous shape.Yet the wheel path that is used for the guide rail angle of 0 degree and 10 degree is different from the guide rail angle of 20 degree, and this is because along with rear wheel 106 beginning vertical shifting, it is also moving with respect to front baffle 754 on the horizontal direction backward.In addition, utilize the guide rail angle of 0 degree and 10 degree, in case the distance of one section about 130mm of rear wheel 106 vertical displacements, for remaining travel path, rear wheel just begins advancing with respect to front baffle on the horizontal direction forward.For the guide rail angle of 20 degree, rear wheel 106 does not move in the horizontal direction backward.Shown in Figure 36 A, the guide rail angle of 0 degree provides the horizontal throw backward of maximum, and the guide rail angle of 10 degree and 20 degree provides the horizontal throw backward that diminishes gradually.Like this, along with the track angle increases (top end part that is guide rail turns forward manyly), along with rear wheel upward movement in vertical direction, the distance that rear wheel is advanced with respect to front baffle on horizontal direction backward is littler.As previously described, the embodiment that is appreciated that rear suspension system can be configured for providing and rear wheel paths different shown in Figure 36 A.For example, some embodiment of rear suspension system can be configured such that rear wheel is being advanced on the horizontal direction backward in the whole perpendicular movement process of rear wheel.

Figure 36 B and 36C have shown three groups of data with chart, have shown along with rear suspension system 750 moved to for the second higher compression stage from the first low compression stage, and chain-stay length (CSL) changes in company with aforesaid three different guide rails orientations.Y-axis line 792 representatives shown in Figure 36 B are the actual chain-stay length of unit with the millimeter, and 794 representatives of X-axis line are the rear wheel upright position of unit with the millimeter.Y-axis line 796 representatives shown in Figure 36 C are the chain-stay length variations of unit with the millimeter, and 798 representatives of X-axis line are the rear wheel upright position of unit with the millimeter.Shown in Figure 36 B and 36C, for whole three guide rail angles, along with rear wheel 106 vertically moves, chain-stay length increases.The guide rail angle of 0 degree provides the maximum of chain-stay length to increase, and the guide rail angle of 10 degree and 20 degree provides the increase that little by little reduces of chain-stay length.

Figure 36 D has illustrated three groups of data display along with rear suspension system 750 moved to for the second higher compression stage from the first low compression stage, and how lever ratio changes along with aforesaid three different guide rails orientations.As mentioned above, lever ratio is defined as General Logistics Department's wheel travel divided by total vibrations stroke.Like this, for given dampening assembly, " softer " suspension that higher relatively lever ratio is felt corresponding to bicycle rider, and " more rigidity " suspension of feeling corresponding to bicycle rider of relatively low lever ratio.The 4th embodiment of rear suspension system can be configured for allowing bicycle rider to change the orientation and/or the shape of guide rail, so that along with rear wheel 106 provides the required lever ratio and required " sensation " of rear suspension system when travel path moves.

Y-axis line 800 is represented lever ratio shown in Figure 36 D, and 802 representatives of X-axis line are the rear wheel upright position of unit with the millimeter.Shown in Figure 36 D, the guide rail angle of 0 degree, 10 degree and 20 degree provides relatively low initial lever ratio, and it is along with rear wheel 106 increases to top offset in vertical direction.Like this, the rear suspension system that is constructed with 0 degree, 10 degree and 20 degree guide rail angles is " rigidity " with feeling in initial rear wheel displacement process, and along with the further displacement of rear wheel will little by little feel it is " softer ".Shown in Figure 36 D, along with the rear wheel displacement, the guide rail angle of 20 degree provides maximum lever ratio, and the guide rail angle of 10 degree and 0 degree provides the lever ratio that little by little diminishes.Therefore, along with the guide rail angle increases (being that guide rail 782 turns forward manyly), rear suspension system 750 will provide correspondingly " softer " sensation.Be appreciated that embodiments of the invention also can adopt the guide rail that defines arcuate shape.This guide rail will provide along with the slider connecting rod is advanced and the guide rail angle variable with respect to the slider connecting rod along rail length.Therefore, guide rail can be provided with by the user, so that required lever ratio curve is provided.

The scheme drawing of the 5th embodiment 750 ' of rear suspension system is shown in Figure 31 A-31C.According to the rear suspension system 750 of the 5th embodiment ' be similar to aforesaid the 4th embodiment 750, difference is that dampening assembly 760 links to each other with slider connecting rod 780 in a different manner.More particularly, shown in Figure 31 A-31C, the axis of the piston 786 of dampening assembly 760 links to each other with the slider connecting rod with rocking arm 806 by connecting connecting rod 804.

Shown in Figure 31 A-31C, rocking arm 806 defines triangular shaped parts, and it has three corner areas.First corner area 808 links to each other with fork 778 pivotally with downward pipe 770.Second corner area 810 links to each other pivotally with dampening assembly 760.Method of three turning angles zone 812 be connected connecting rod 804 and link to each other pivotally.Connect connecting rod 804 and extend, and be connected pivotally with slider connecting rod 780 from the method for three turning angles zone 812 of rocking arm 806.Be appreciated that rocking arm 806 can be configured to have a plurality of damping connection locations.Like this, the 5th embodiment 750 ' provides the extra means that are used for the adjustment (adjusting) lever ratio for the user, and this is to realize by dampening assembly being connected in the different directed and position on the rocking arm.

Figure 36 A-36C shown the rear suspension system 750 that is in different compression stages '.More particularly, Figure 36 A has shown rear wheel 106, and rear suspension system 750 ' be in first is compression stage not relatively.As shown in the figure, first pivot 764 is in primary importance, and wherein fork 778 is near 10 o ' clock positions (looking from the right side of bicycle), and second pivot 762 is in the primary importance near the centre portion of guide rail 782.In addition, dampening assembly 760 is in first compression stage as shown in the figure.For example when bicycle rider is sitting on the bicycle, be applied to the upward force on the rear wheel 106 or be applied to downward force on the seat 110, can be with rear suspension system 750 ' the be positioned at second portion compression stage shown in Figure 36 B.

The relatively demonstration of Figure 36 A and Figure 36 B, along with fork 778 begins clickwise (looking from the right side of bicycle) from initial position shown in Figure 36 A, first pivot 764 makes progress and moves forward.Simultaneously, the slider connecting rod 780 and second pivotal axis 784 (second pivot 762) the length along guide rail 782 be moved upward to the second place.The upward movement of slider connecting rod 780 also upwards spurs and connects connecting rod 804, and this moves with respect to downward pipe 770 (looking from the right side of bicycle) cw with regard to making rocking arm 806.The axis of the piston 786 that rocking arm 806 forces dampening assembly 760 again along clockwise rotation upwards and forward so that dampening assembly is positioned at second compression stage.In addition, along with rear suspension system 750 ' from first not compression stage move to not compression stage of second portion ground, master pendulum arm 776 around second pivot 762 along clockwise direction (looking) pivoted from the right side of bicycle.

When for example after bicycle rider and bicycle are being skipped obstacle, landing, be applied to the bigger upward force on the rear wheel 106 or be applied to bigger downward force on the seat 110, can with rear suspension system 750 ' be positioned at shown in Figure 36 C the depth of the night full compression stage.The relatively demonstration of Figure 36 B and Figure 36 C, along with fork 778 from position clickwise shown in Figure 36 B (looking) from the right side of bicycle, first pivot 764 is further forward and move down.Simultaneously, slider connecting rod 780 and slider axle 784 (second pivot 762) further have been moved upward to the 3rd position on close guide rail top along the length of guide rail 782.The extra upward movement of slider connecting rod 780 also further upwards draws and connects connecting rod 804, and this just makes rocking arm 806 with respect to downward pipe 770 (looking from the right side of bicycle) and further along right-hand revolution.Rocking arm 806 along the clockwise the axis of the piston that is further rotated and forces dampening assembly 760 786 further upwards and forward so that dampening assembly is positioned at the 3rd compression stage.With respect to other embodiment as mentioned above, dampening assembly is used to resist rear wheel 106 displacements and is used to make rear wheel to get back to its displacement position before.Therefore, dampening assembly for example can be used for making the back to hang 750 ' get back to the second portion compression stage shown in Figure 36 B from the 3rd full compression stage shown in Figure 36 C.

From the above description of various setting of the present invention and embodiment, be appreciated that by the agency of be used for bicycle rear suspension system comprise the first pivot translation assembly and the second pivot translation assembly.Rear suspension system can form in various mode, and operates in various mode, and this depends on user's required rear wheel path and lever ratio curve.Be appreciated that in conjunction with each setting of the present invention and the described feature of embodiment and can exchange to a certain extent, make the many modification that exceed concrete introduction be fine.It is also understood that rear-mounted above-mentioned component parts needn't with described with shown in mode link to each other with bicycle, therefore can link to each other with framework and be connected with each other in various extra position.It is also understood that back physical form of suspension element and relative length be not limited to shown and described herein those.

Although described various representative embodiment of the present invention hereinbefore with certain specific degrees, but, those skilled in the art can carry out many changes to the disclosed embodiments under the prerequisite of the spirit or scope that do not break away from this specification sheets and the described subject matter of claims.All to the quoting of direction (for example upper and lower, upwards, downward, left and right, left, to the right, top, the end, top, following, vertical, level, cw and conter clockwise) be only used for helping the identifying purpose of reader understanding's embodiment of the invention, tool is not restricted, especially position of the present invention, orientation or purposes are not had restricted, unless fixed at claims special secondary school thresholding.Bonded assembly is quoted (for example link to each other, connect, connect or the like) should broadly be explained, and can comprise centre part between the connection of element and the relative motion between the element.Like this, bonded assembly is quoted and might not just be inferred, two elements be directly link to each other and be in relation fixed to one another.

In some cases, reference " end " described member has specific characteristic and/or links to each other with another parts.One skilled in the art will recognize that and the invention is not restricted to the member that just stops immediately at the point of connection that exceeds itself and other parts.Therefore, term " end " should broadly explain, comprise adjacent to, back in, preceding in or near particular element, connecting rod, member, partly, the zone of parts or the like.In this article directly or in the described indirectly method, various step is described with operating in a kind of possible operation order, but those skilled in the art will recognize that, can reset, replace or eliminate described step and operation, and need not to depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.More than describe or full content shown in the drawings should only be interpreted as illustratively, but not have restricted.Under the prerequisite of the spirit of the present invention that does not break away from claims and limited, can carry out various changes to details or structure.

Claims (44)

1. bicycle comprises:

First framework;

Second framework;

The first pivot translation assembly;

The second pivot translation assembly; With

Wherein, described first framework links by the described first pivot translation assembly and the described second pivot translation assembly and described second framework;

The described first pivot translation assembly comprises first pivot, and described first pivot engages first pivot guides, so that move along described first pivot guides; And

The described second pivot translation assembly comprises second pivot, and described second pivot engages second pivot guides, so that move along described second pivot guides.

2. bicycle according to claim 1 is characterized in that first framework is a rear frame, and second framework is a front baffle.

3. bicycle according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described bicycle also comprises the dampening assembly that links to each other pivotally with described second framework and the described first pivot translation assembly.

4. bicycle according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described bicycle also comprises the dampening assembly that links to each other pivotally with described first framework and described second framework.

5. bicycle according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described bicycle also comprises the dampening assembly that links to each other pivotally with described second framework and the described second pivot translation assembly.

6. bicycle according to claim 1 is characterized in that,

Described first pivot and described first framework link;

Described first pivot guides links to each other with described second framework.

7. bicycle according to claim 6 is characterized in that, described first pivot guides is a track.

8. bicycle according to claim 7 is characterized in that, described first pivot comprises axle, and it rotatably supports and is suitable at least one roller of rolling back and forth along described track.

9. bicycle according to claim 1 is characterized in that,

Described first pivot guides comprises at least one guide rail;

Described first pivot comprises axle, and it rotatably supports and is suitable for the slider connecting rod that slidably reciprocates along described at least one guide rail.

10. according to the bicycle of claim 9, it is characterized in that described slider connecting rod is suitable for sliding type ground and accepts described at least one guide rail.

11. bicycle according to claim 6 is characterized in that, described first pivot guides is an arcuate shape.

12. bicycle according to claim 6 is characterized in that, described first pivot guides is a straight line.

13. bicycle according to claim 6 is characterized in that, described first pivot guides comprises at least one orbital plane, and it defines angle with respect to described framework.

14. the bicycle according to claim 13 is characterized in that, described angle is adjustable.

15. bicycle according to claim 6 is characterized in that, described first pivot guides links to each other with the described second framework adjustable ground.

16. bicycle according to claim 6 is characterized in that, described bicycle also comprises the dampening assembly that links to each other pivotally with described first pivot and second framework.

17. bicycle according to claim 1 is characterized in that, the described second pivot translation assembly comprises:

With joining described second pivot of described first framework;

Described second pivot guides that links to each other with described second framework; With

Wherein, described second pivot and described second pivot guides link versatilely.

18. bicycle according to claim 17 is characterized in that, described second pivot guides is a track.

19. bicycle according to claim 18 is characterized in that, described second pivot comprises axle, and it rotatably supports and is suitable at least one roller of rolling back and forth along described track.

20. bicycle according to claim 17 is characterized in that, described second pivot guides comprises at least one guide rail.

21. bicycle according to claim 20 is characterized in that, described second pivot comprises axle, and it rotatably supports and is suitable for the slider connecting rod that slidably reciprocates along described at least one guide rail.

22. bicycle according to claim 21 is characterized in that, described slider connecting rod is suitable for sliding type ground and accepts described at least one guide rail.

23. bicycle according to claim 17 is characterized in that, described second pivot guides is an arcuate shape.

24. bicycle according to claim 17 is characterized in that, described second pivot guides is a straight line.

25. bicycle according to claim 23 is characterized in that, described second pivot guides comprises at least one orbital plane, and it defines angle with respect to described framework.

26. bicycle according to claim 25 is characterized in that, described angle is adjustable.

27. bicycle according to claim 17 is characterized in that, described second pivot guides links to each other with the described second framework adjustable ground.

28. bicycle according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described second pivot guides is connected described first framework versatilely with described second framework, and described second pivot links to each other described first framework pivotally with described second framework.

29. bicycle according to claim 1 is characterized in that, described first framework comprises:

The head pipe;

The head tube that links to each other with described head pipe;

The seat tubes that links to each other with described head tube;

The downward pipe that links to each other with described head pipe; With

The bottom bracket that links to each other with described downward pipe.

30. a bicycle comprises:

Framework;

The front vehicle wheel that rotatably links to each other with described framework;

Rear suspension system comprises:

First parts;

With described first parts and the operationally joining first pivot translation assembly of described framework, the described first pivot translation assembly comprises first pivot, and described first pivot engages first pivot guides, so that move along described first pivot guides; With

With described first parts and the operationally joining second pivot translation assembly of described framework, the described second pivot translation assembly comprises second pivot, and described second pivot engages second pivot guides, so that move along described second pivot guides; And

The rear wheel that rotatably links to each other with described rear suspension system.

31. bicycle according to claim 30 is characterized in that,

Described first pivot and described first parts link;

Described first pivot guides links to each other with described framework.

32. bicycle according to claim 30 is characterized in that, the described second pivot translation assembly comprises:

With joining described second pivot of described first parts;

Described second pivot guides that links to each other with described framework; With

Wherein, described second pivot and described second pivot guides link versatilely.

33. bicycle according to claim 30 is characterized in that, described first parts comprise Vee formation shape.

34. bicycle according to claim 30 is characterized in that, described rear suspension system defines the rear wheel travel path.

35. bicycle according to claim 34 is characterized in that, described rear wheel travel path comprises horizontal component and normal component, and wherein, described horizontal component is on the backward directions with respect to described framework.

36. bicycle according to claim 34 is characterized in that, along with rear wheel is upwards advanced along vertical direction, described rear wheel along with respect to described front vehicle wheel backward horizontal direction and advance.

37. bicycle according to claim 30 is characterized in that, described rear suspension system has constant lever ratio.

38. bicycle according to claim 30, it is characterized in that, described rear suspension system defines first lever ratio when described rear wheel is in primary importance, along with described rear wheel moves up to the second place and the lever ratio that increases from described primary importance, and the lever ratio that reduces from described second place upward movement along with described rear wheel.

39. bicycle according to claim 30, it is characterized in that, described rear suspension system defines first lever ratio when described rear wheel is in primary importance, along with described rear wheel moves up to the second place and the lever ratio that reduces from described primary importance, and the lever ratio that increases from described second place upward movement along with described rear wheel.

40. bicycle according to claim 30 is characterized in that, described rear suspension system defines along with described rear wheel upward movement the lever ratio that changes linearly.

41. bicycle according to claim 30 is characterized in that, described second pivot guides is connected described first parts versatilely with described framework, and described second pivot links to each other described first parts pivotally with described framework.

42. bicycle according to claim 30 is characterized in that, described framework comprises: the head pipe;

The head tube that links to each other with described head pipe;

The seat tubes that links to each other with described head tube;

The downward pipe that links to each other with described head pipe; With

The bottom bracket that links to each other with described downward pipe.

43. a bicycle comprises:

First framework that comprises the first pivot translation assembly and the second pivot translation assembly; The described first translation pintle assembly comprises first pivot, and described first pivot engages first pivot guides, so that move along described first pivot guides; The described second pivot translation assembly comprises second pivot, and described second pivot engages second pivot guides, so that move along described second pivot guides;

Second framework; And

Described second pivot guides links to each other described second pivot versatilely with described second framework.

44., it is characterized in that described first framework comprises according to the described bicycle of claim 43:

The head pipe;

The head tube that links to each other with described head pipe;

The seat tubes that links to each other with described head tube;

The downward pipe that links to each other with described head pipe; With

The bottom bracket that links to each other with described downward pipe.

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